Many people may not realize when the drinking habits of others are signs of alcoholism, because they themselves do not have these inclinations. Their needs are not the same as the wants and desires of an alcoholic. But particular actions an alcoholic takes may signal to other people that there is a problem. This can help curb the problem and lead to support and help.
Loss of Control
You may be able to have one or two drinks and leave a bar or party. The alcoholic cannot stop drinking once he starts. It is not as if the person is weak. The physical dependency creates an urge to drink that is beyond the alcoholic's control, according to Psychiatric Disorders. It you notice that someone is unable to limit the amount of alcohol he is drinking numerous times when on outings, that person may be an alcoholic.
Tolerance
An alcoholic will build tolerance to alcohol so that more consumption of alcohol is necessary to feel its effects, the Mayo Clinic explains. You might notice someone who almost always needs to have plenty of drinks to feel good or normal. The alcoholic has a desire to become intoxicated.
Drinking Alone
The alcoholic has no problem being alone while drinking. The alcoholic beverage has become a close friend. Other people may enjoy drinking some wine or a favorite alcoholic beverage while listening to music or relaxing, on occasion. The alcoholic may drink alone to be away from others or to hide her addiction. Keeping drinking a secret is part of the alcoholic's fear of being found out. The alcoholic may even keep alcohol in unlikely places at home or in the car.
Blackouts
Alcoholics may have periods of blackouts, in which they do not remember anything that happened nights or days earlier. This may include long conversations with people or commitments they have made and later appear to have broken. If you have repeatedly arranged to do something with someone who does not show up, and the person later seems unaware that such plans were made, it could indicate alcoholism. Alcoholics have an ability to act completely normal while intoxicated, but the memories may later be a blur.
Withdrawal Symptoms
People around an alcoholic may not be aware of the severe symptoms the alcoholic suffers. These symptoms may include shaking, sweating for no reason and nausea. The person may even need a drink to settle his nerves following a night of heavy drinking. If you notice these symptoms occurring numerous times to someone, it could be a sign that he is an alcoholic.
