There is nothing particularly unusual about getting a bit boozy over Christmas.
However too much alcohol can have a really serious inpact on your body, your bank balance and your relationships.
People are being urged to watch their drinking habits this Christmas as experts reveal the 'red flag' signs of a functioning alcoholic. A recent study showed almost two thirds (61%) of drinkers in the UK over-indulge in alcohol during the festive season. A report by the research team at Private Rehab Clinic Delamere, has taken a look at the financial cost of long term drinking.
The Liverpool Echo reported that according to the research, people who binge drink over the festive season by consuming 22 units or more a week, could spend either:
- £62.55 on wine
- £41.20 on beer
- £50 on cocktails
- £51 on spirits.
Experts have revealed the common 'red flag' signs to watch out for if you are taking your drinking habits a little too far.
Signs and symptoms of a functioning alcoholic include:
Frequent intoxication and smelling of alcohol
Loss of control around alcohol use
Hiding alcohol in strange places such as their garage, at the office, in bushes or in their car
Drinking between work times or appointments, or drinking just enough to keep their alcohol levels topped up if they are alcohol dependent
Frequent binge drinking after daily responsibilities are taken care of
Justifying their drinking as a way of unwinding after work, a busy day with the kids or as a reward
Becoming irritable, anxious, restless and unable to sleep if they are unable to drink
Regularly drinking in the morning before going about their day, or at odd times of the day such as lunchtime in order to avoid alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Always drinking at social events and ‘preloading’ prior to attending a social event
Avoiding social events or activities that do not involve alcohol
Alcohol has become a problem at home, with them either drinking excessively alone at home or disappearing to a pub or bar straight after work for hours
Becoming defensive or flippant when challenged over their drinking
Denying they are an alcoholic, reasoning that they still hold down a job or take the kids to school on time
Alternating alcohol and prescription pills in order that they can function
They may become erratic, spontaneous, angry or change their character completely whilst intoxicated
Difficulty in recalling events that took place whilst heavily intoxicated – experiencing an alcoholic blackout
Risk-taking, they may well drive to work or drive children to school whilst still over the limit from the previous night or from taking a morning drink
According to the NHS, alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that's harmful, or when you're dependent on alcohol. The full list of short-term and long-term risks as well as advice on alcohol misuse can be found here.
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