Heavy alcohol use affects more than just the individual consuming the alcohol. It also affects everyone around them, from friends and family to co-workers. Any person who is wondering whether they drink too much should look into how their drinking affects their lives.
Sadly, 33 percent of American adults have a drinking problem at some time in their lives. When this problem escalates, they find their relationships are affected. What warning signs should a person look for that suggest their drinking is doing harm to the relationships in their lives?
Hiding Alcohol Use
When a person hides their alcohol use from loved ones, this is a sign the habit has become unhealthy. The lies may come in many forms. A person might tell their loved ones they are somewhere else when they are actually out drinking. It may be that they lie about the number of drinks they had.
Any lie can lead to relationship issues because others no longer trust what this person says. If they are lying about drinking, are they lying about other things? Anyone who is hiding alcohol use needs to question whether they have a problem and visit Vertical Treatment Centers to learn about different treatment options.
Violent Behavior
A person may become violent when they are drinking. In fact, research shows men who drink are more likely to commit violence against their partners. The more a person drinks, the higher this risk is. Sadly, a person who is a victim of violence is also inclined to drink more. Even moderate consumption of alcohol can lead to violent behavior, so people must be aware of this regardless of how much they drink.
Issues in the Bedroom
One place where a relationship may be negatively affected by alcohol use is in the bedroom. Men who drink often find they cannot perform in the bedroom. They may become angry or frustrated when this happens and take it out on their partner. Women who drink alcohol also find they cannot orgasm as easily and the intensity of their orgasms decreases. With continued alcohol use, men may become impotent and women may find it difficult to become pregnant.
Financial Problems
A person who drinks may spend money needed for other purposes on alcohol. They struggle to make ends meet. In addition, when using alcohol, they may make impulsive purchases and then find themselves short on money for their regular obligations.
Over time, these financial problems mount, and they may find they are homeless. If the alcohol affects their work performance, they may lose their job, which compounds their financial difficulties.
Broken Commitments
When a person drinks, they often make promises and then break them. Family and friends learn they cannot count on this person to do what they say they will. They quit asking because they know the person isn’t reliable.
This can affect their relationships in negative ways, as the person might stop inviting them to events or asking them to participate in things. These broken commitments lead to arguments, broken relationships, and more.
Increased Alcohol Use
A person might find their alcohol use becomes more important than the relationships in their lives. If they are asked to choose between a loved one and the alcohol, the alcohol might win out. This shows the depth of their addiction, as they are willing to give up people to have more alcohol.
If you suspect you have a drinking problem, seek help today. With treatment and support, relationships can mend. It requires taking the first step, however, and getting help. Take this step today.
