Many of us enjoy a drink every now and again, but you’ll likely know people who take it to the next level too. Drinking daily and quite clearly having a significant problem with booze.

Often that makes us think we’re just fine. Well, we don’t drink as much as John or Kath so we don’t have a problem. But that can be a damaging approach to take.

Just because you don’t drink as much as someone else doesn’t mean you shouldn’t regularly check in on your own relationship with alcohol. We should be well aware of our alcohol use and how that might be impacting us.

Often there are some telltale signs that the amount we drink is too much, regardless of how much more friends or family members consume, and you should look out for this to understand if you’re drinking too much…

You’re Drinking More Than You Planned To

Actually one of the clearest signs is that you’re drinking more than you intended. For example, you might head to the pub for two pints but have a third. While that may feel innocuous, if this is happening regularly then it’s perhaps telling you that alcohol plays a bigger part in your life than you might think.

Regularly exceeding your intentions and not being able to stick to your own limits is a red flag and suggests a lack of control. What’s more, it can also lead to a higher tolerance, increased consumption and take up more of your time. Essentially, it’s having a more prominent impact on your life.

Your Drinking Is Affecting Your Responsibilities

If you’re finding yourself unable to manage your priorities as a result of booze, then your priority has become alcohol. For example, if you’re arriving late to work after a boozy night or struggling to focus on deadlines, this is a problem.

Likewise, if you are neglecting household chores because you’ve spent too much time at the pub or are too drained after an evening drinking, this is a problem.

Even things like spending quality time with loved ones or being able to drive to go and do the shopping are all responsibilities that are often affected by those that have a problem with drinking. And in which case, it could be time to cut down, give up or seek help.

You Rely on Alcohol to Cope With Stress or Emotions

Using alcohol as a coping mechanism is one hundred percent a sign you have a problem. It can lead to a harmful cycle that can further dependence and make mental health conditions much worse.

While alcohol might provide a short term relief, stress or mental health issues will become worse over time as your body rebounds from the effects of drinking.

Alcohol is never a healthy way to cope with stress, and you should seek alternatives such as exercise, meditation, counselling or even hobbies like painting, crafting, walking, knitting, all of which will have a far more positive impact on mental health, both in the short and long term.

Your Social Life Revolves Around Drinking

Another common indicator that alcohol use is becoming excessive is when your social activities consistently revolve around drinking. If you struggle to imagine an evening out, a holiday, or a get-together without alcohol, it’s worth questioning whether drinking has become too central to your lifestyle.

You might also notice that your relationships with friends or family who don’t drink as much have become strained or less frequent. Social pressures can normalise heavy drinking, but it’s important to find a balance and ensure you’re able to enjoy activities that don’t involve alcohol. Taking a step back to explore alcohol-free hobbies or outings can help you gain perspective on your drinking habits.

You’re Experiencing Physical or Emotional Symptoms

Excessive alcohol use can lead to noticeable physical and emotional effects. If you regularly wake up with hangovers, feel tired or foggy during the day, or struggle with disrupted sleep, it may be a sign that your body is reacting to the strain of alcohol. Over time, frequent drinking can also lead to more serious health concerns, including liver damage, high blood pressure, and weakened immunity.

Emotionally, you might experience increased irritability, anxiety, or low moods, particularly as alcohol impacts the brain’s natural chemical balance. If you’re noticing changes in your health, mood, or energy levels, it’s important to listen to your body and consider reducing your alcohol intake to give yourself time to recover.