We all know that “excessive” alcohol consumption is a bad thing – but what exactly is the definition of “excessive”? If you think that you or someone you love is drinking too much, you may be wondering if it is really as bad as you think and what (if anything) should be done about it.
How much is too much?
Drinking is a common part of social gatherings and cultural traditions, but it is important that people realize the need to drink responsibly and not excessively. As a general rule, “moderate” drinking is considered to be no more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 a day for women. “Heavy” drinking is 4 drinks a day for men and 3 drinks a day for women. However, although these numbers can help determine if there is a problem with alcohol, they don’t tell the whole story.
You may decide you are drinking “too much” when it is no longer just a social activity but something you need to do to cope with life. It may be becoming a problem if you start neglecting relationships and responsibilities; if you want to quit drinking or reduce how much you drink but just can’t seem to; if you have to drink more and more to get the effect you once did; if you drink even though you recognize it is causing you health or mental health problems; if you find yourself in dangerous situations; if you are getting into legal trouble because of your drinking; and/or if you don’t do activities anymore that you used to enjoy so that you have more time to drink.
And just as there are many different signs that you are drinking too much, there are many different psychological reasons why you may drink too much. Alcohol use can also change the brain in ways that can make it difficult to quit on your own. It can all be very complex, which is why, if you think you have a problem with alcohol, you need professional help. Contact Wasatch Crest in Heber, Utah, for information about alcohol treatment. Call (800) 385-3507 today.
