Do you enjoy just going out with your buddies for a nice cold beer or a glass of wine after a round of golf?
Social drinking is a major part of most common interest groups – it gives you something to do and a way to bond after the game is over.
Oftentimes, it might even be paired with a meal, too.
But, sometimes that social drinking can get out of hand…
What is social drinking?
It is no mystery that drinking is a social occasion. Sometimes, alcohol can be referred to as a social lubricant as it helps make people feel a little more relaxed and comfortable, therefore allowing them to engage more with their audience.
While drinking in and of itself is not necessarily a sign of a problem – substance abuse or addiction – it can lead to one. Even too much of a good thing can become a problem.
Social drinking is typically defined as having complete control over your consumption and just drinking a few drinks – plus, it is done in a social setting. It is done as an activity, as a hang out, but you are not getting trashed.
What is an alcohol addiction?
However, on the other hand there is also a level of alcohol addiction. Addiction is when it turns from social drinking to a problem – drinking several drinks, and frequently, without the ability to control yourself. You find that you physically need the toxin to feel “normal.”
When is enough, enough?
Because everyone is susceptible to addiction – just some have a stronger predisposition to it – you should always monitor your drinking habits, even if you just consider yourself to be a social drinker.
Watch out for these signs as they might be trying to tell you there is a problem:
- You are unable to control consumption once you have had the first sip.
- You consume alcohol daily.
- You have legal, school, or work problems as a result.
- You are experiencing physical symptoms that only end after ending alcohol consumption.
- Your personal relationships are negatively impacted by your alcohol consumption.
- You act dramatically different when you are under the influence.
Many of these signs, in addition to others, can indicate that you have developed an addiction to alcohol. At this point, the issue might be out of control, therefore, it is time to seek help.
Casual or social drinking is not wrong and is not a problem – but only if you keep it under wraps. It is important to always be aware of how alcohol is effecting your life as an occasional drink can quickly become a problem.