When Does Drinking Alcohol Become Harmful?

There are millions of people around the world who drink alcohol. It’s a custom to have alcohol at events and gatherings throughout many countries, not only the United States. And because alcohol is such a popular and well accepted substance, it’s easy to come to the conclusion that it is safe. And for many people who drink alcohol moderately, it is safe. However, for others drinking alcohol on a regular basis can very easily become dangerous. So, how does one determine whether alcohol is safe or not? How can you tell if drinking is beginning to be harmful?

It’s true that for some people drinking alcohol can not only be safe, but it can help them feel more relaxed and more at ease in social situations. Some research suggests that occasional consumption of alcohol has health benefits. However, for each person there is a fine line between experiencing the benefits of drinking alcohol versus feeling its harmful effects. And the truth is you’re going to need to find it for yourself. 

However, here are some indicators that alcohol is beginning to be harmful versus helpful:

Regret: Although alcohol can make you feel more at ease in social situations, with too much alcohol, you might feel too at ease. You might end up doing something that you later regret. 

Accidents: Drinking too much alcohol can lead to intoxication and this can make a person prone to accidents, slips, falls, and even physical fights with others. 

Crime: Those who drink a lot of alcohol tend to make poor decisions when under the influence. They might either find themselves in a dangerous situation and be the victim of crime or they might decide to contribute to illegal activity. 

Pregnancy/STD: Sometimes, alcohol can increase one’s sexual activity. With many partners or with increased sexual activity a person might end up either pregnant or with a sexually transmitted disease. 

Hangovers: Alcohol brings hangovers which can impair one’s ability to perform well at work or school. It can also impair one’s family relationships. 

Low self-esteem: Some people wake up after a morning of heavy drinking and find that they don’t feel good about themselves. Like eating too much chocolate cake, the over-indulgence and the feelings of regret can undermine a person’s self-confidence. 

Health: Of course, regular consumption of alcohol can lead to problems with the liver, heart, and other major organs of the body. 

Addiction: If you notice having withdrawal symptoms when you’re not drinking or you notice that you need more alcohol to feel the same effects, then it’s possible an addiction is developing. This can grow into a dangerous situation. These symptoms would be clear indicators to stop drinking alcohol, if you can. 

These are some indicators that you may be drinking too much. Experts have not been able to agree on the amount of drinking that can be harmful for a person. However, according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse, men should avoid drinking no more than 4 drinks in a day or no more than 14 drinks per week.  Women should avoid drinking no more than 3 drinks in a day or no more than 7 drinks per week.

If you or someone you know is beginning see the above indicators in their life, especially if there are signs of addiction, stop drinking alcohol. And if you’re having trouble with ending your alcohol consumption, contact a mental health provider immediately for support.