“I am not an alcoholic” is a phrase I frequently hear during my daily consultations with individuals struggling with their relationship with alcohol. While this statement may be true for some people, it highlights the problematic nature of labelling and stigmatizing individuals struggling with alcohol use.

The reality is that alcohol use disorder is a complex issue that can manifest in various ways and impact people differently. Some individuals may binge drink, while others may drink daily but still feel in control.We must understand that alcohol use disorder is a spectrum, and people can fall anywhere along that spectrum.

So, how do you know if you have a problem with alcohol?

The answer is not always clear-cut, as it can depend on a range of factors, including how much and how often you drink, how it affects your life and relationships, and whether or not you have tried to cut back or quit in the past.
If you find that you are consistently drinking more than you intended, have tried to cut back or quit without success, or find that alcohol is causing problems in your personal or professional life, it may be time to seek help.

This does not mean you have to label yourself as an “alcoholic” or identify with any other specific term. The focus should be on addressing the issue and finding the appropriate support and resources to help you make positive changes.

Seeking help for alcohol use disorder is a courageous step, and it is important to remember that recovery is possible with the proper support.

The label “alcoholic” is not mandatory when it comes to alcohol use disorder. Instead, the focus should be on identifying whether or not you have a problem with alcohol and finding the appropriate support and resources to address the issue.

People can learn to manage their alcohol use and improve their overall well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, don’t hesitate to seek help. Remember, recovery is possible, and taking that first step toward getting help can make all the difference.