Recognize alcoholic symptoms:

Signs and help

Recognize alcoholics: How to identify the first signs

Alcoholism often develops gradually and the first signs are not always obvious. The typical symptoms of an alcoholic include an ever-increasing craving for alcohol, which is often played down or concealed. Many of those affected increasingly drink alone or in secret in order to conceal their consumption. Another sign is that the person concerned has difficulty meeting social, professional or family obligations, which is often caused by alcohol consumption.

Changes in behavior are a further indicator: alcoholics often react irritably or aggressively when they are approached about their consumption. Memory lapses and forgetting events after drinking - so-called "blackouts" - are also typical warning signs. If alcohol consumption dominates everyday life, it is time to take a closer look and seek a conversation.

Symptoms in the advanced stage

Alcoholic terminal stage:

The health and psychological consequences are particularly pronounced in the final stage of an alcoholic. The person affected often suffers from serious physical damage such as liver damage, heart problems and gastrointestinal disorders. In addition, neurological disorders often occur, leading to tremors, memory loss and confusion.

Psychologically, the final stage is characterized by deep depression, anxiety and often social isolation. Relationships break down and the ability to cope with everyday life decreases significantly. In this phase, the disease is difficult to treat and withdrawal requires intensive medical care. Early intervention can help to prevent this stage.

Symptoms you should look out for

Alcoholic withdrawal:

Alcohol withdrawal can cause both physical and psychological symptoms. Tremors, sweating, headaches and sleep disturbances often occur after just a few hours without alcohol. Severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or hallucinations can occur and require medical supervision as they can be life-threatening.

Psychological symptoms such as anxiety, irritability and severe mood swings are also common. Medically supervised withdrawal treatment helps to alleviate these symptoms and make withdrawal safe.

Alcoholism: The fine line between control and dependence

Alcoholism often develops unnoticed and insidiously. What begins as occasional drinking can turn into a dangerous addiction. Many people believe they have their consumption under control, but the transition to addiction is fluid. An important warning sign is a loss of control: those affected drink more than planned or are unable to go without alcohol for long periods of time.

The need to reach for alcohol in stressful or emotionally difficult moments is also a sign of a growing dependency. So-called functioning alcoholics, who seem to cope normally with their everyday lives while alcohol becomes more and more present, are particularly treacherous. Here it is important to ask yourself honestly: is consumption still enjoyable - or already an addiction?

Act correctly: How you can help an alcoholic

If you have the feeling that someone around you is suffering from alcoholism, it is important to proceed with caution. The first step is to seek a conversation - you should approach the person without accusations and with understanding. It can help to point out specific situations in which alcohol consumption was problematic and offer support.

It is also important to encourage the person concerned to seek professional help, be it from a doctor, an addiction counseling center or a self-help group. Make sure that you are patient and do not overburden yourself. The road to recovery is often long, but with the right support, a life without alcohol can become possible again.