Alcohol Abuse

While having an occasional drink is common, consuming alcohol may be a sign of something more if it affects your health, relationships, or responsibilities. Alcohol abuse can sneak up over time, but the mental health professionals at Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, provide support and compassionate care. If you’re ready to regain control and build a healthier, more balanced life, call or text the office to book a telehealth appointment or use the convenient online scheduling feature now.

What is alcohol abuse?

Alcohol abuse refers to unhealthy patterns of drinking that negatively affect a person’s physical health, emotional well-being, and daily life. This includes binge drinking (consuming a large amount in a short period), drinking to cope with stress or emotions, or continuing to drink despite consequences.

Alcohol abuse can range from occasional risky behavior to alcohol use disorder (AUD), a medical condition characterized by a strong urge to drink and difficulty controlling consumption.

What are the dangers of alcohol abuse?

The risks of alcohol abuse are both immediate and long-term. In the short term, it increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, poor decision-making, and risky behaviors. 

Over time, alcohol abuse can lead to serious health issues such as liver disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, depression, and memory loss. It also increases the risk of addiction, negatively affects relationships, and can interfere with work, school, and family responsibilities.

What are the signs of alcohol abuse?

Common signs of alcohol abuse include:

• Frequently drinking more than intended
• Needing more alcohol to feel its effects (tolerance)
• Devoting a significant amount of time to drinking or dealing with its aftereffects
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Drinking in dangerous situations (e.g., before driving)
• Continuing alcohol use even when it causes physical, emotional, or social issues
• Feeling unable to cut down or stop drinking

Not everyone who drinks heavily has an alcohol use disorder, but consistent patterns of misuse are a cause for concern and worth addressing.

How is alcohol abuse treated?

At Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center, the mental health professionals’ treatment plans are highly personal and depend on the severity of the problem. They may recommend:

Counseling and therapy

Individual or group therapy can help you understand the root causes of your drinking and develop healthier coping strategies.

Medication

Certain medications can reduce cravings or make drinking less appealing.

Support groups

The team can offer guidance on joining programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), offering community and accountability.

Lifestyle changes

Building new routines, reducing stress, and strengthening support networks are essential for recovery.

With the right combination of support, care, and determination, you can overcome alcohol abuse and reclaim a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Reach out to Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center today online to request a telehealth appointment. You can also call or text.