Figuring out the truth of your justifications for your excessive drinking is crucial to breaking down the wall of denial. These are often asked by my alcohol class students when they take my alcohol awareness classes.
Myth #1: I can cease drinking anytime I want to.
Maybe you can; unfortunately it’s more likely you can’t. Regardless it’s only an excuse to continue drinking. The fact is, you don’t want to stop drinking. stop drinking alcohol. Lying to yourself you are able to quit makes you feel in control, even with all evidence you have and in spite of the damage it’s doing.
Myth #2: My drinking is my problem. I’m the one it hurts, so no one has the right to tell me to stop.
It’s true that the decision to quit drinking is ultimately up to you. But you are deceiving yourself if you think that your drinking hurts no one else but you. Alcoholism affects everyone around you—especially the people closest to you. Your problem is their problem.
Myth #3: I don’t consume alcohol every day, so I certainly am not an alcoholic OR I limit my drinking to wine or beer, so I There’s no way I have a drinking problem.
Having a drinking problem is not defined by the type of alcohol you drink when you choose to drink, or even how much you drink. It’s the effects of your alcohol consumption that define a problem. If your drinking alcohol is leading to issues in your home or work life, you have a drinking problem and most likely are an alcoholic—whether you drink everyday or only on the weekends, consume shots of rum or limit yourself to wine, drink three cans of beer a day or three fifths of whiskey.
Myth #4: I don’t have an alcohol problem because I have regular employment and I’m doing OK
You do not have to be a bum who drinks out of a brown paper bag to be an alcoholic. Many people with drinking problems are able to stay employed, get an education, and provide for their families. Some people are even able to excel. But even if you’re a high-functioning drinker this doesn’t indicate that you’re not putting yourself or those that you love at risk. Eventually, the effects will mean you have to pay the piper.
Myth #5: Drinking alcohol is not a “true” addiction like drug abuse.
Alcohol is a drug, and alcoholism is every bit as harmful as drug addiction. Alcoholism causes changes in the body and mind , and long-term alcohol use can have extremely harmful effects on your body, your employment, and your relationships. People with drinking problems go through physical withdrawal when they cease drinking, just like drug users do when they stop.
Coming to terms with the fact that there’s a big problem can be painful for everybody in the family not just the alcohol abuser. But don’t feel shame. You’re not alone. Alcoholism affects numerousfamilies, from every social class, race, or culture. But there is help accessible for your and your loved one. You can learn more about drinking by taking an online alcohol class.