Dr. Thomas Wright oversees all medical operations for Rosecrance. He specializes in working with adolescents who have a co-existing or secondary diagnosis in addition to an addiction disorder. A social alcoholic, or a social drinker is known as a low-risk drinker. You may not think that you have a problem and become defensive when your friends or family members begin to question your drinking habits.
You're just a social drinker, after all, and there is really nothing to worry about.
But what does that even mean?
Of course you can go to a party and have a few drinks while being social; however, might you be having the same symptoms as an alcoholic but just in a social setting? Or are you saying that you're a social drinker to hide your true patterns of alcohol abuse?
A true social drinker should be able to stop drinking without having any cravings, without wanting to suppress emotions, or without feeling like you have to sneak around to get a drink.
Addiction expert at Rosecrance, Dr. Thomas Wright, MD, explains the differences between a social drinker and an alcoholic, as well as the signs to look out for if you or someone you know is a social alcoholic.
Health Topics A-Z
Are You a Social Alcoholic?
Guest
: Thomas Wright, MD
From the Show: Staying Well
Summary: You say you don't have a "problem" because you only drink at social gatherings. But is that just an excuse?
Air Date: 2/10/14
Duration: 10
Host: Melanie Cole, MS
