Many people wrongly assume that alcohol abuse is most prevalent within the teenage demographic in the United States. The picture that often comes to mind is of teenagers sneaking alcohol into unsupervised parties and becoming intoxicated. In reality, people who abuse alcohol can be:
- College students who binge drink
- Professionals who drink after a long day of work
- Pregnant women who put their babies at risk for fetal alcohol syndrome
- Senior citizens who drink out of loneliness
To recognize the serious problems of alcohol abuse, April is designated "Alcohol Awareness Month." Learning the signs and symptoms of excessive alcohol use/abuse can help you or a friend monitor your drinking behavior and avoid serious risks of problem drinking.
Signs and Symptoms of Excessive Drinking:
- Poor judgment
- Physical signs such as slurred speech, clumsiness, loss of memory
- Disruption of sleep
- Depression-"I don't care," attitude or feeling that "everything is boring"
- Lowered grades/work performance
- Missing classes/work
Additional warning signs of alcohol abuse include drinking alone when you feel angry or sad; being late for work/school because of your drinking; forgetting what you said or did while you were drinking; drinking after telling yourself that you won't; and having friends or family members tell you that they are concerned about your drinking.
Monitor Your Drinking Behavior:
- Keep track of the number of drinks you consume. Know exactly how much and how often you drink.
- Set goals: Determine how much you will (or won't) drink and stick to the plan.
- Pace and space: Always completely finish a drink before ordering another. Drink a glass of water between alcoholic beverages.
- Include food: A full stomach helps limit alcohol consumption.
- Avoid "trigger" situations: Steer clear of events/activities that encourage excessive drinking or for which you have a history of problem drinking.
- Planning to handle urges: create a support system that can help you stick to your goals.
- Stay safe: never leave your drink unattended, refuse to ride with a person who has been drinking, and never leave someone who has passed out from drinking.
To avoid health risks associated with alcohol the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture advises those who drink to do so in moderation (defined as consuming no more than one drink per day for women; and no more than two drinks per day for men).
For more information on alcohol-related issues and concerns visit the Counseling Services website or contact a counselor at 414-277-7590.
MSOE Counseling Services creates monthly newsletters on mental health concerns and psychological issues. You can view the complete list of Counseling Services Newsletters.
MSOE Counseling Services is located on the second floor of the Kern Center (K-230). To schedule an appointment with a counselor, call (414) 277-7590 or visit the Counseling Services homepage.