Understanding Your Relationship with Alcohol

It often begins subtly. You might start by having a few drinks every weekend. Then you begin planning your Fridays and Saturdays around alcohol, ensuring wherever you go includes drinks. Soon, weekends start on Thursdays, "Tequila Tuesday" becomes a regular occurrence, and before you realize it, alcohol has become part of your daily routine.

Many people find themselves in this situation, and eventually, that uncomfortable question arises: "I drink every night—am I an alcoholic?"

Part 1: What Is Considered Alcoholism?

The term "alcoholic" carries significant stigma and isn't always clearly defined. That's why many healthcare professionals now use the term Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Clinically, AUD refers to a chronic brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), doctors use these criteria for diagnosis:

• Loss of control: Drinking more or longer than intended
• Unsuccessful efforts to cut back: Repeated failed attempts to reduce or quit drinking
• Time spent on alcohol: Significant time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
• Cravings: Strong, persistent urges to drink
• Failure to fulfill responsibilities: Repeated failures at work, school, or home due to drinking
• Interpersonal issues: Continued drinking despite relationship problems
• Foregoing activities: Skipping hobbies or social events due to alcohol use
• Risky behaviors: Drinking in dangerous situations
• Increasing tolerance: Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect
• Withdrawal: Experiencing symptoms when not drinking
• Persistence despite problems: Continuing to drink despite known negative consequences

Doctors diagnose AUD based on the number of symptoms present:

• Mild: 2-3 symptoms
• Moderate: 4-5 symptoms
• Severe: 6 or more symptoms

The key takeaway: AUD exists on a spectrum. It's not about whether you "have it" or not, but rather to what extent. Understanding where you stand can be the first step toward seeking help or making changes.

Part 2: If I Drink Every Night, Am I an Alcoholic?

Drinking every night doesn't automatically mean you have AUD. However, if it's causing negative consequences and you're unable to cut down, it's worth examining more closely.

Why Do We Turn to Alcohol Nightly?

Several factors contribute to nightly drinking patterns:

• "I feel happier with a drink": Alcohol stimulates dopamine release, creating a pleasure-reward cycle that can become habitual
• "It melts my stress away": As a depressant, alcohol temporarily mutes anxiety, but the relief is short-lived and stress often returns stronger
• "It's just part of my evening ritual": The sensory aspects of drinking can become powerful relaxation cues
• "I need booze to socialize": Social pressure or the belief that alcohol helps with socializing can fuel daily drinking
• "It numbs my emotions": Alcohol can serve as an emotional band-aid, though an ineffective long-term solution
• "It helps me sleep better": While alcohol might help you fall asleep faster, it actually compromises sleep quality

Is Drinking Daily Harmful?

Current guidelines indicate that no amount of alcohol is completely safe. Moderate consumption is typically defined as up to one drink daily for women and two for men. Chronic heavy drinking, however, carries undeniable health risks:

• Liver damage: Including fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis
• Heart health issues: High blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and increased stroke risk
• Brain health impairment: Affecting coordination, memory, and mood regulation
• Digestive problems: Gastritis and impaired digestion
• Weakened immune system: Increased susceptibility to infections

Part 3: Alcohol Types and Daily Consumption

Different alcoholic beverages have varying effects on health when consumed daily:

Drinking Beer Every Day

A standard beer (12 ounces) contains about 5% alcohol. Regular consumption can lead to feeling bloated and potential weight gain due to calorie content.

Drinking Wine Every Day

A standard glass (5 ounces) ranges from 12-15% alcohol. Excessive consumption negates any potential benefits and can contribute to liver problems, increased cancer risk, and dental issues.

Drinking Hard Liquor Every Day

Spirits (1.5 ounces) typically contain 40-50% alcohol. The high potency makes it easy to overconsume, potentially leading to severe liver damage and metabolic disruptions, especially when mixed with sugary beverages.

7 Action Steps To Reassess and Regain Control

If you're considering cutting back or quitting, these science-backed steps can help:

• Track your drinks: Log every drink for a week to identify patterns (Quitemate is a great place to start!)
• Set clear limits: Decide specific days or occasions for drinking
• Find alternatives: Replace drinking rituals with herbal tea, baths, or short walks
• Engage in mindfulness: Become aware of why you're reaching for alcohol
• Seek social support: Share your goals with supportive friends or family
• Consult a professional: Work with a therapist specializing in addiction if needed
• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge every day you stick to your plan

Summing Up

Asking "I drink every night, am I an alcoholic?" takes courage. While nightly drinking alone doesn't constitute an AUD diagnosis, it's important to consider the broader context. How is alcohol affecting your life, health, and relationships? With understanding and actionable steps, you can develop a healthier relationship with alcohol that supports your well-being. Remember, each day brings new opportunities for positive change!