Identifying Alcohol Abuse

Although it is illegal for those under 21 to imbibe, Americans aged 12 to 20 drink eleven percent of the alcohol consumed in our country, with more than 90 percent of that total in the form of binge drinking. It is important to remember the number of drinks that are found in common alcohol containers. For example, both a “Forty” of malt liquor and a bottle of wine actually contain five drinks, while a Fifth of distilled spirits holds seventeen.

Youth with mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder, are more likely to develop a drinking problem. Finding alternatives to consuming alcohol can be as simple as watching a football or soccer game with friends, going for a drive to get ice cream or coffee, or having a game night. It also is important to prepare yourself to be able to say no easily when someone asks you to drink underage.

Warning signs of substance abuse include drinking more frequently or in greater quantities than you intended, being able to socialize only if alcohol is present and/or encountering unintended consequences as a result of drinking, such as injuries, embarrassment, being assaulted, missing school or other important obligations, and legal or other discipline issues. If friends or family members express concern over your drinking, there also may be a problem.

Depression can be worsened by alcohol use. When this occurs and the person continues to drink anyway, he or she likely is suffering from substance abuse. Individuals who have a problem with alcohol eventually need to drink more to get the same intoxicating effect that they previously experienced. In addition, they often are sick during or after a night of drinking and can have memory blackouts. When they do stop drinking for a period of time, those who are confronting addiction face unpleasant side effects, including a racing heart, serious headaches, sweating, insomnia and trembling.

If you no longer participate in activities that you used to enjoy so that you can drink more often or if you have unsuccessfully tried to reduce the amount of alcohol you consume, you may wish to talk to a medical professional. Addiction and/or mental health specialists will welcome your seeking help in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner and recognize your courage in getting treatment for a potentially lethal disorder. #SoberSeptember