Dr. Julie Silver, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, developed a new series of books to discuss subclinical mental health conditions. In other words, she wants people to become aware that mental illness has a period of time before it becomes diagnosable where a pattern of certain symptoms are present, much like people have pre-diabetes or prehypertension for months or years before they meet the clinical criteria for the full-scale disease.

Almost Alcoholic is the title for the initial book of the series. It discusses the key signals an individual may display as they move dangerously close to alcoholism. The hope is that if people recognize that they have an issue before it becomes a massive problem, it can be taken care of much more quickly and simply with far less collateral damage in their lives.

The Difference Between an ‘Almost Alcoholic’ and an Alcoholic

The major symptoms that someone is on the fast track towards alcoholism, according to the book, are any of the following:

• Continuing to drink alcohol no matter what negative effects they experience from its use
• Drinking alcohol alone at home or frequently going to bars alone to drink
• Happily anticipating drinking alcohol
• Using alcohol to numb either emotional or physical trauma

The criteria above appear to be very similar to the signs of a full-blown alcoholic, but the authors explain that the main factor that differentiates the two is their tolerance. “Tolerance” refers to the amount that an individual is able to drink before he or she feels the effects of the alcohol. The authors feel that anyone who has built a tolerance to the substance needs to seek treatment that includes an appropriate detox period as part of the program.

The Book Highlights the Negative Impacts of ‘Almost Alcoholism’ on Loved Ones

The authors point out that even if an individual’s drinking hasn’t reached the point of diagnosable alcoholism, those close to them may still be suffering. If someone drinks a little too much, they will inevitably become tired and go to bed. A parent, spouse or family member who is sleeping too often is missing out on activities with their family and kids. They may also be putting undue stress on their spouse by placing too many of the responsibilities pertaining to the running of the household on their shoulders. This can start to undermine the relationships with their spouse, children and extended family.

If you know someone who you think has a drinking problem, contact us today. We can connect you with top-notch rehab programs that are able to provide an in-depth assessment for your loved one. Each quality treatment center will be able to advise you on the best level of intervention. Don’t try to figure this out alone. Call now.