Alcoholism doesn’t always look the same. For many, it hides in plain sight behind smiles, careers, and daily routines. If you’re concerned about someone close to you, it’s normal to wonder, Is my loved one an alcoholic?
This guide will help you understand the signs of alcoholism in a loved one, how to approach the conversation, and how Good Landing Recovery can support lasting transformation through compassionate, Christ-centered care.
Understanding Alcohol Use vs. Alcohol Dependence
Drinking alcohol is common in social settings, but when casual drinking turns into dependence, it becomes a serious concern.
Signs of Normal Alcohol Use:
- Occasional social drinking
- Ability to stop after one or two drinks
- No interference with work, relationships, or responsibilities
Signs of Alcoholism:
- Loss of control over drinking
- Drinking despite negative consequences
- Increased tolerance or needing more alcohol to feel the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms like shaking or anxiety when not drinking
Alcoholism, also called alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a medical condition recognized by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. It ranges from mild to severe but always requires attention.
10 Warning Signs of Alcoholism in a Loved One
If you’re wondering whether your loved one has a drinking problem, look for these common indicators:
- Frequent Blackouts or Memory Loss: Forgetting events or conversations after drinking.
- Drinking in Secret or Hiding Alcohol: Stashing bottles or lying about how much they drink.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Skipping work, ignoring family obligations, or failing in school due to drinking.
- Changes in Mood or Behavior: Increased irritability, defensiveness, or aggression, especially when drinking is questioned.
- Drinking Alone or First Thing in the Morning: Signs of physical dependence and prioritizing alcohol above all else.
- Legal or Financial Problems: DUIs, arrests, or reckless spending related to alcohol.
- Avoiding Social Events That Don’t Involve Alcohol: Preferring environments where drinking is expected.
- Denial or Downplaying the Issue: Saying “I can stop anytime” but never making a real effort.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing shakes, sweating, nausea, or anxiety without alcohol.
- Continued Drinking Despite Consequence: Even when relationships, health, or jobs suffer, they keep drinking.
Emotional and Physical Impact of Alcoholism
Alcoholism affects more than just behavior—it impacts the body, brain, and relationships.
Physical Symptoms:
- Weight fluctuations
- Bloodshot eyes
- Slurred speech
- Liver damage and high blood pressure over time
Emotional & Relational Consequences:
- Broken trust
- Codependency
- Verbal or emotional abuse
- Isolation from friends or family
If you’ve noticed these changes in someone you love, it may be time to take action.
The Role of Denial and Shame in Alcoholism
Many people with alcohol use disorder don’t believe they have a problem. They may compare themselves to others who “drink more” or say things like:
- “I only drink on weekends.”
- “I’m under a lot of stress.”
- “Everyone drinks this much.”
Denial is a powerful defense mechanism fueled by shame, fear, and stigma. Recognizing this can help you approach your loved one with compassion instead of judgment.
How to Talk to a Loved One About Their Drinking
Approaching someone about their alcohol use is delicate. Choose a calm moment—never during or right after a drinking episode—and speak from a place of love.
Tips for the Conversation:
- Use “I” statements: “I’m concerned about you” instead of “You have a problem.”
- Express concern, not control: “I care about your health” vs. “You need to quit.”
- Be prepared for defensiveness or denial.
- Offer support: “I’ll go with you to talk to someone” or “You don’t have to do this alone.”
What Causes Alcoholism?
Alcoholism doesn’t happen overnight. It often stems from a combination of:
- Genetics: Family history of addiction increases risk.
- Trauma: Childhood trauma or PTSD can contribute.
- Mental Health Disorders: Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder often co-occur with addiction.
- Environment: Peer pressure, stress, or access to alcohol can play a role.
Understanding these underlying causes helps remove blame—and opens the door to healing.
Faith, Healing, and Christ-Centered Recovery
At Good Landing Recovery, we believe healing comes through more than just behavior change. It comes from transformation—body, mind, and spirit. Christ-centered recovery addresses addiction by reconnecting individuals with their identity, purpose, and hope in Christ.
Our approach includes:
- Faith-Based Counseling
- Group and Individual Therapy
- Biblical Truth for Lasting Change
- Support for Families and Loved Ones
Good Landing Recovery walks alongside both the person struggling and the family affected, offering a safe, compassionate, and effective environment for freedom and restoration.
When Is It Time to Seek Help?
It’s time to seek help if your loved one:
- Can’t stop drinking despite trying
- Has experienced withdrawal symptoms
- Drinks in dangerous situations (like before driving)
- Has hurt relationships, job, or health due to alcohol
- Expresses hopelessness or suicidal thoughts
Don’t wait for rock bottom. Early intervention can prevent further damage and start the healing process sooner.
How Families Can Support Recovery
Supporting a loved one with alcohol use disorder isn’t easy—but you’re not alone.
What You Can Do:
- Learn about alcoholism and how it affects the brain and body
- Set healthy boundaries and avoid enabling behaviors
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Get support for yourself (counseling, faith-based groups, or Al-Anon)
A strong support system improves recovery outcomes. You can be a lifeline.
You Are Not Alone
If you’re asking, Is my loved one an alcoholic?—trust your instincts. The signs of alcoholism in a loved one can be subtle or severe, but they always deserve attention. With the right help, freedom is possible.
Good Landing Recovery is here to walk with you. Through Christ-centered care and proven therapeutic approaches, we help individuals and families overcome addiction and rediscover the joy of sober living.
Reach out to us today—healing starts with one courageous step.