Alcoholic breaks down the ‘three categories’ he says all drinkers fit into
Warning: This article contains discussion of alcoholism which some readers may find distressing.
A recovering alcoholic breaks down the ‘three categories’ he says all drinkers fit into.
Corey Warren managed to overcome his alcohol addiction and claims that drinking problems aren't simply black and white. In fact, if your mate enjoys more than the occasional glass of wine, there might be some warning signs to pay attention to.
According to NICE guidelines, heavy chronic alcohol consumption 'increases the risk of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, psychosis, impairments of memory and learning, alcohol dependence and an increased risk of suicide.'
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Recent scientific studies have also shown alcohol's harmful effects on the brain, showing it can accelerate dementia risk. At the same time, other research reveals that 35 years of excessive drinking can alter brain genes responsible for reward processing and decision-making.
After multiple rehab attempts, Warren 'turned his pain into purpose' and launched a non-profit organisation which helps those struggling with substance abuse.
In one of Warren's YouTube clips (@icoreywarren), the husband and father-of-two explained why he thinks 'most people who drink alcohol' fit into one of these three categories.
'Everybody knows about it drinker'
The host of The Sober Boyz podcast began with the 'everybody knows about it drinker'.
While their family and friends are likely aware they have a drinking problem, this person also recognises that they've 'got a problem,' which means they're 'most likely to ask for help.'
'I'm not that bad drinker'
The sobriety advocate described the 'I'm not that bad drinker' covers people who only consume alcohol on the weekends or special occasions. However, they always 'drink too much' when they do.
Warren explained that individuals in this group go beyond their limits and have likely 'gotten in trouble a couple of times' as a result.
"The issue here is that it's never become painful enough for him to want to change," Corey added.
'Everything looks fine drinker'
Finally, Warren discussed the 'everything looks fine drinker' which includes people who maintain a façade where 'everything appears perfect' on the outside while secretly struggling with their drinking.
He classed this category as the 'most dangerous of them all,' adding: "This guy pays his bills, takes care of his responsibilities[...] but the problem here is that, because he'll never see it as a problem, he'll probably never change.
"And he'll never know his life at full potential."
What are the signs of alcohol dependency?
Anyone who regularly drinks could be at risk of becoming alcohol-dependent, Drinkaware noted.
The HSE provides specific warning signs to watch for, including:
- Drinking has become an important priority in life
- Struggling to control how much, or when, you drink
- Finding it difficult to stop drinking when you want to
- Craving alcohol or having withdrawal symptoms, and drinking to avoid these symptoms
When someone acknowledges their condition, they can explore available treatment options, including therapy or residential inpatient programs.
If you've been affected by addiction and want to speak to someone in confidence, you can call American Addiction Centers on (888) 324-0595, available 24/7, or contact them through their website.