While it's viewed as a relatively harmless substance to many people, alcohol addiction is a very real problem. It can also be challenging to determine whether you or someone you love has an issue with alcohol due to how normalized drinking is in society. Alcohol recovery can get you back on the right path, but the first step is identifying the issue. Here are a few things to look for in order to get help as soon as possible.  

How to Identify Alcohol Addiction in Yourself or a Loved One

1. Drinking Excessive Amounts

Binge drinking involves imbibing an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time. For women, four or more drinks a night is considered binge drinking. For men, five or more drinks per night are considered excessive. Excessive drinking not only signals an issue with addiction, but it can also lead to major injuries, including falls and car accidents. Additionally, binge drinking can have an impact on your health by increasing your risk of diseases like cancer and stroke. 

2. Experiencing Blackouts

Drinking too much alcohol can actually affect your memory, which is known as a blackout. Blackouts typically occur when a person has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.16% or higher. At this BAC, the brain is unable to take short-term memories and transfer them into the long-term storage area of the brain. As a result, you may only remember snippets of the night, or you might not remember anything at all. 

3. Getting in Trouble Over Drinking

Addiction can have a negative impact on various areas of your life, from your personal relationships to your employment. It can also result in legal issues if you receive a DUI or are charged with disorderly conduct. If you continue drinking despite these issues, the problem is a lot deeper than you can manage. People who are addicted can't simply stop using their drug of choice due to physical and mental factors. Fortunately, you can secure support and assistance to help you break the cycle. 

If you believe you need alcohol recovery in Dayton, OH, Woodhaven Residential Treatment Center is here to provide kind, compassionate care. This accredited drug treatment center treats every patient with the respect and dignity they deserve. While they rely on established processes and treatment models, the staff will also customize their services to meet your needs. Visit them online for more information on substance abuse and dependence, or call (937) 813-1737 to get started on the alcohol recovery process today.