Alcohol consumption is a normal part of many societies and cultures and is meant to be enjoyed as it was intended: responsibly. Oftentimes, however, the irresponsible consumption of alcohol impacts communities and individuals negatively.

This is why it’s important to educate and amplify the importance of responsible drinking behaviours, attitudes, and practices, thus enabling a culture of moderation and responsible alcohol consumption in our societies.

These are some of the signs that “Phuza” has become a problem and calls for concern:

You Drink More Than Planned

You’ve had times where you ended up drinking more than you thought you would or for longer than you were going to. It may not seem like a big deal if it only happens occasionally, but that shows you have trouble controlling yourself while drinking. And it’s an early warning sign.

Your Tolerance Has Gone Up

“The usual” doesn’t have as much of an effect on you anymore. You need to drink much more than before to get the buzz you want. Your brain adapts to alcohol over time, and you can become less sensitive to its effects.

You’re Dropping the Ball on Life

Can you think of more than a few times when you came to work with a hangover, missed deadlines, or got behind on schoolwork because of your drinking? When your alcohol use, including being sick from drinking, often prevents you from keeping up with responsibilities at home, work, or school, it’s a problem.

You Could’ve Been Hurt

While you’ve had a lot to drink, your brain doesn’t grasp the short-term and big-picture results that could come from poor decision-making. This can make you get into risky situations like driving, swimming, fighting, having unsafe sex, or walking in a dangerous area. Even if nothing bad has happened yet, this is a warning sign.

It’s starting to affect your health

Alcohol can damage your liver, heart, brain, pancreas, and immune system. Although you realize it’s harming you, physical or emotional dependence on alcohol can make quitting hard.

It Causes Friction in Relationships

You care about your loved ones, but you can’t imagine your life without alcohol. Your drinking has led to trouble with your family or friends or made problems worse, yet you continue to drink. This doesn’t make you a bad person, but it does make it more urgent that you look for help to change your habits and get your relationships back on track.

Remember that any of these things could signal an alcohol problem. Don’t feel bad but do consider cutting back on drinking or quitting altogether. Talk to your healthcare provider to assist you in taking control of your life again. It is possible Choma, and you can do it.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message,  an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).