Grief is defined as the body's natural response to loss, according to HelpGuide.org. When someone is going through grief from the loss of a loved one or a major traumatic event, turning to alcohol often occurs. This is considered an unhealthy way to deal with the underlying issue. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 17.6 million people in the U.S. abuse alcohol. Learning how damaging alcohol can be when used as a coping mechanism will help you understand positive ways to deal with your loss.
Reasons
Some people turn to alcohol after a traumatic event because it helps them disassociate with their problems and numbs reality. They may show signs of binge drinking or becoming dependent on alcohol to curb anxiety, depression or the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as nausea and shakiness. This commonly occurs in someone who has recently experienced a traumatic event such as the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, a terminal diagnosis or a divorce. Turning to alcohol for support can easily become a cycle and needs immediate treatment.
Types of Grief
HelpGuide.org mentions the five stages of grief, developed by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, which start with denial, anger, then bargaining followed by depression and acceptance. Most alcohol abuse begins to take form during the first four stages. The emotions that are experienced during this time are also associated with deep pain and loneliness. The alcohol masks this feeling but can often prolong the grieving process because problems with alcohol now have to be dealt with.
Signs
If you know of someone who has recently suffered a great loss, there are signs to look for to signify possible alcohol abuse, according to the Health Communities website. This includes slurred speech, poor coordination, impaired judgment and talkativeness. Other signs may include the smell of alcohol on the person's clothing and poor hygiene. If the bereaved begins to hide alcohol bottles around his home or in his car and drinks in isolation, this could also be a sign of alcohol abuse that is out of control.
Alternatives
There are other things to turn to rather than alcohol if you are grieving for the loss of a loved one or suffering from a traumatic event. The National Mental Health Information Center explains that seeking help for your grief depends on the severity of its effect on you. Instead of turning to alcohol, seek support from family and friends. Take on new hobbies or engage in activities that stimulate your mind and help keep you focused on the task at hand. Some people find comfort in seeking religious support and attend church or practice spiritual care regularly.
Seeking Help
If you think that you are dealing with your grief in an unhealthy way by drinking too much alcohol, it may be time to seek professional help. If you drink heavily up to three or more times per day, you may need to enter an alcohol detox program to safely stop drinking. The body experiences withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, muscle twitching, anxiety and a desire to drink as it detoxes. Seek support through a 12-step program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, that offers group meetings.
