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Danger signs
In the early stages, there are usually few outward signs of a problem. The victim functions normally most of the time but a few personality changes may be present: the inability to handle stress and increased conflict with family members.
While this is not necessarily indicative of an alcohol problem, additional signs will be present to others before they are accepted by the victim:
- An increase in the amount of alcohol required to achieve the same effect or "buzz"
- Lapses in memory or "blackouts"
- A feeling that a drinking pattern is getting out of control
- And in the final stages, the victim is unable to stop drinking for any lengthy period of time but derives little or no pleasure from the alcohol consumption
The most prevalent and pervasive symptom exhibited by the victim is that of denial: no problem exists. Chronic drinking and other related problems will be attributed to other causes.
Family members also may be in denial and protect the victim (calling in sick to work to cover for a hangover) or refuse to acknowledge destructive behavior.
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