Alcohol affects people in a wide variety of ways. Some people become more social and talkative; others become quiet and withdrawn. Some start making jokes; others start to cry. It wakes some people up and it puts other people to sleep.

It is important to note the distinction between alcohol addiction and “problem drinking”. Problem drinking is alcohol consumption that causes problems, such as impaired driving or a propensity to become physically or verbally abusive when drunk ( Read about: How to Get off DUI Charges Rehab Program). People who engage in problem drinking are not necessarily addicted to alcohol, although some are.

What are the signs of alcohol addiction?

It can be difficult to tell when someone has an alcohol addiction, particularly in the early stages. Most people with an alcohol addiction are very good at hiding it. They develop sophisticated ways to prevent others from finding out.

Warning signs that you or a loved one might have an alcohol addiction include the following:

• The individual gradually abandons work and family responsibilities
• The individual knowingly consumes alcohol when it is dangerous to do so, for example, prior to operating heavy machinery or driving a car
• The individual finds that he or she is having financial or legal problems as a result of drinking
• The individual drinks at inappropriate times, for example, first thing in the morning
• You discover empty and half-empty alcohol bottles in random places where you would not expect to find them
• The individual consumes alcohol with the intention of either seeking or avoiding a particular feeling
• The individual continues to drink despite knowing that it is causing problems.

Alcohol addiction treatment in Toronto

Addiction Rehab Toronto is a facility that provides alcohol addiction treatment in Toronto. We help affected individuals with safe, supervised withdrawal, and we help them overcome their addictions and any underlying issues. For more information, refer to our alcohol addiction treatment page.