Alcoholism and Daily Drinkers
Drinking alcohol every day can have a significant and lasting impact on your life. From physical to mental, emotional, and social consequences, the effects of drinking alcohol daily are far-reaching.
But what exactly happens when you drink alcohol every day? Let’s explore the physical, mental, emotional, and social implications of daily drinking.
At Zinnia Healing, our team of experienced and compassionate professionals is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from alcohol use disorder (AUD). Our range of treatment options, such as detox, inpatient, and outpatient care, provide each person with a personalized plan that works best for them. To get started, call our helpline at (855) 430-9439.
Physical Effects of Drinking Alcohol Everyday
The physical effects of alcohol consumption can be severe and long lasting, ranging from short-term impairments to withdrawal symptoms.
Binge drinking has a particularly dramatic effect on the body, and can lead to accidents, coma, and death.
However, even moderate drinking can cause physical health problems like liver damage, a weakened immune system, and high blood pressure.
1. Short-Term Effects
The short-term physical effects of drinking alcohol every day are usually felt within minutes after consuming it and include:
- Impaired coordination, leading to clumsiness or difficulty walking
- Slurred speech
- Slowed reaction time
- Blurred vision
- Increased risk of injury due to falls or accidents
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Decreased inhibitions, which can lead to risky behavior like driving while intoxicated
- Blackouts
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), when individuals are intoxicated, alcohol-related blackouts may cause them to forget events that took place during this period.
After drinking a large amount of alcohol, the brain temporarily stops memories from transferring to long-term storage. This creates “memory gaps.”
2. Long-Term Effects
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the long-term effects of alcohol include:
- Liver damage (cirrhosis)
- A weakened immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections and diseases
- High blood pressure, increasing your risk for heart attack or stroke
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can cause abdominal pain and diabetes if left untreated
- Weight gain due to consuming empty calories
- An increased risk for certain types of cancers, such as breast cancer and mouth cancer
Battling alcohol abuse isn’t easy, but the road to sustained sobriety is attainable with the help of Zinnia Healing. From medically-supervised detoxification and inpatient services to outpatient programs, we have the tools and resources you need to successfully reach your recovery goals. Call 24/7 at (855) 430-9439 for immediate assistance.
3. Withdrawal Symptoms
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, someone who abruptly stops drinking after a prolonged period of alcohol consumption can experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Tremors (shaking hands)
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Confusion
- Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t real)
- Seizures
These withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, so heavy drinkers shouldn’t quit cold turkey.
Instead, seek professional help from doctors or addiction treatment programs that will guide you through the process safely, with medications if necessary.
Mental and Emotional Effects of Drinking Alcohol Everyday
Alcohol consumption can have serious mental and emotional effects on the drinker, including:
1. Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment is one of the most common side effects of drinking alcohol regularly. This includes difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and an inability to think clearly or process information quickly.
In extreme cases, this cognitive impairment can lead to permanent damage in certain areas of the brain.
2. Mood Changes
Mood changes are also a common effect of regular alcohol consumption. People who drink heavily may experience irritability, depression, or even anger when not drinking.
These mood swings can be difficult for both the person struggling with addiction as well as their friends and family members.
3. Anxiety and Depression
There is an increased risk of developing anxiety disorders or depression due to the changes in brain chemistry caused by alcohol consumption. Alcohol affects neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, that regulate moods and emotions.
Long-term use can cause these levels to become imbalanced, leading to feelings of hopelessness or despair that could eventually develop into clinical depression when left untreated.
Social Consequences of Drinking Alcohol Everyday
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious social consequences. People who drink heavily may face issues such as:
1. Relationship Problems
Drinking alcohol heavily can lead to relationship problems, both in the short and long term. In the short term, people who drink too much may become more aggressive or behave inappropriately while under the influence of alcohol.
This can cause arguments with family members or friends and lead to strained relationships.
In the long term, heavy drinking can take priority over other activities and relationships as a person becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, family members can be a tremendous source of motivation and encouragement for someone battling AUD, helping them recognize that seeking treatment is the right decision.
Further, family support during recovery plays an integral role in long-term success, providing active assistance when needed.
2. Financial Difficulties
Heavy drinking often leads to financial difficulties due to spending too much money on alcohol or related expenses, such as cab fares after nights out drinking.
Additionally, legal issues related to excessive drinking, such as DUI charges or fines for public intoxication, can be costly and put a strain on finances.
3. Legal Problems
Excessive consumption of alcohol is illegal in many places around the world, and those caught breaking these laws face serious consequences, including fines, jail time, community service hours, license suspension and revocation, and probationary periods.
Is It OK to Have an Alcoholic Drink Everyday?
According to the CDC, to mitigate the potential for alcohol-related harm, the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults of legal drinking age choose either:
- Not to drink
- Set a limit of two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women
The Guidelines also recommend that people do not drink:
- If they are pregnant or could be pregnant
- If they are under the age of 21
- If they have certain medical conditions, like liver disease or pancreatitis
- If they are overcoming an alcohol use disorder or their drinking has become difficult to manage
- Taking medication that may interact with alcohol, including prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements
Women who are breastfeeding should exercise caution and leave time for alcohol to clear their system before breastfeeding again.
Get Help For Alcohol Abuse Today
It is clear that drinking alcohol every day can have serious consequences on your physical, mental, and emotional health as well as your social life. The effects of drinking alcohol every day are not always immediately apparent, but they can be long-lasting and even irreversible. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence, seek help right away.
At Zinnia Healing, our experienced, compassionate staff members understand the difficulties of alcohol addiction and can guide you through every step in your recovery journey. Get the assistance you need by calling our helpline 24/7 at (855) 430-9439, which also provides hotlines for alcohol abuse, to speak with our knowledgeable admissions and support team.