Madi Sonwoy

Figuring out the truth of the myths that you may be using to justify your drinking is essential to stopping your denial. These are often asked by my alcohol class students when they take my alcohol awareness classes.

Myth #1: I can quit drinking when I decide.

It’s possible that your can unfortunately it’s more likely you can’t. Regardless it’s just an excuse to keep consuming alcohol. The reality is, you don’t want to stop. Telling yourself you can quit drinking makes you feel in control, in spite of 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 a person with a drinking problem OR I limit my drinking to wine or beer, so I there’s no way I’m an alcoholic.

Alcoholism is not defined by what you drink, when you drink it, or even how much you drink. It’s the effects of your alcohol consumption that define a problem. If your drinking alcohol is causing troubles in your home or work life, you have a drinking problem and most likely are an alcoholic—whether you drink each day or only on Saturdays and Sundays down shots of rum or limit yourself to wine, drink three bottles of beer a day or three fifths of Jim Beam.

Myth #4: I’m not an alcoholic because I am employed and I’m doing OK

You do not need to be a bum and drinking out of a brown paper bag to be an alcoholic. Many alcoholics are able to stay employed, get through school, and provide for their families. Some people are even in a position to do better than average. But just because you’re a high-functioning alcoholic this doesn’t imply that you’re not putting yourself or those that you love at risk. Eventually, the results will catch up with you.

Myth #5: Drinking alcohol is not a “real” addiction like being a drug addict

Alcohol is a drug, and alcoholism is every bit as damaging as being a drug addict. Alcoholism leads to changes in the body and mind , and long-term alcohol use can have devastating effects on your health, your work, and your relationships. People with drinking problems go through physical withdrawal when they stop drinking, just like drug addicts do when they quit.

Admitting that there’s a big problem can be painful for the whole family, not just the alcohol abuser. But don’t feel shame. You’re not alone. Alcoholism affects numerousfamilies, from every social strata, race, and culture. But there is help readily available for your and your loved one. You can learn more about drinking by taking an online alcohol class.