Is Drinking Alone Always a Warning Sign? Insights from a Psychologist

When does drinking alone truly raise concerns? 🤔

Whether it’s a glass of wine after dinner, a nightcap before bed, or a solitary beer to unwind, you might notice your partner drinking alone more than usual. This change can naturally cause worry. But does drinking solo always mean there’s a problem?

Commonly, drinking alone is linked to alcohol addiction, but the reality is more complex.

Expert Perspective: Noah Kass, LCSW, Licensed Psychotherapist

Many assume that drinking alone signals an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, but that isn’t always the case. Enjoying a drink alone can be a healthy way to relax after a long day, accompany a meal, or enjoy some entertainment.

Michael Villarreal, CADC, an addiction counselor, agrees: “While solo drinking might raise eyebrows, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s alcohol dependency.”

If your partner drinks alone occasionally, it’s not an automatic red flag. However, it’s important to stay attentive, especially if their alcohol use seems to be heading toward problematic patterns.

Key Takeaways

Drinking alone doesn’t automatically indicate alcohol use disorder. But if your partner drinks to manage stress or numb emotions, initiating an open, supportive conversation can be beneficial.

Consulting a mental health professional, such as a couples therapist or addiction counselor, may help both of you navigate concerns about alcohol use.

Is Solo Drinking Normal?

Drinking alone doesn’t always mean there’s a problem, though individuals struggling with alcohol issues might be more prone to it. Solo drinking can be a symptom of deeper challenges but isn’t a definitive sign of addiction.

Research supports this nuance. A comprehensive review found links between solitary drinking and problematic alcohol use, but the relationship isn’t straightforward.

Some studies show solitary drinkers often consume alcohol to cope with stress or tension, whereas social drinkers might drink for celebration or enjoyment.

Among teens and young adults, solitary drinking correlates with heavier consumption and using alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Solo Drinking Can Be Healthy

However, not everyone who drinks alone has an issue. In many cultures, having a glass of wine with dinner alone is a common and healthy practice.

Conversely, social drinking isn’t always harmless—binge drinking or drinking to manage social anxiety can be problematic.

“Healthy solo drinking involves moderation and enjoyment, focusing on relaxation rather than emotional avoidance,” explains Kass.

Potential Benefits of Drinking Alone

Drinking alone isn’t inherently negative. Some people prefer it due to personal taste, like savoring craft beers or cocktails, or because social drinking can feel overwhelming or anxiety-inducing.

“When done in moderation and not as an escape, drinking can be part of a balanced lifestyle,” Villarreal notes.

Still, if drinking alone becomes a way to avoid stress, loneliness, or emotional pain, it warrants attention.

Risks Associated with Drinking Alone

Even if your partner’s solo drinking seems typical, consider these risks:

• Driving after drinking without a designated driver
• Poor decision-making, such as regrettable messages or social media posts
• Physical accidents due to impaired coordination
• Alcohol poisoning without immediate help available
• Feelings of isolation or loneliness over time

Maintaining open, nonjudgmental communication encourages your partner to seek help or support when needed.

Recognizing Problematic Solo Drinking

Signs that solo drinking may be concerning include:

• Negative impacts on health, work, or relationships
• Inability to reduce or stop drinking despite wanting to
• Memory loss or blackouts from drinking
• Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or irritability when not drinking
• Increasing tolerance requiring more alcohol for effect
• Defensiveness or guilt when discussing drinking habits
• Using alcohol to numb feelings or handle stress
• Anticipating or craving drinking sessions anxiously

Understanding the reasons behind your partner’s drinking is crucial. Are they drinking for enjoyment or to escape? Open, honest dialogue is the best approach.

Approaching Conversations About Responsible Drinking

Discussing drinking habits can be sensitive. Approach the topic with empathy and curiosity instead of judgment to foster honest communication.

Kass suggests asking open-ended questions like:

• “Do you prefer drinking alone or with friends?”
• “How do you feel when you drink by yourself?”
• “What does drinking do for you during those moments?”
• “Does alcohol help you manage certain emotions?”

These questions invite understanding without blame.

If deeper issues emerge, professional support from therapists or counselors can provide valuable assistance.

Finding Support and Resources

If you’re worried about your partner’s drinking, remember you’re not alone. Seeking help is a courageous step for both of you.

Helpful resources include:

• SAMHSA Helpline: 24/7 support connecting you to local treatment and counseling. Call 1-800-662-4357 or visit their website.
• FindTreatment: A SAMHSA tool to locate nearby mental health and substance use services.
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Offers community support groups both online and in-person.
• Al-Anon: Support for those affected by a loved one’s drinking.
• SMART Recovery: Online program providing tools to manage cravings and maintain sobriety.
• Sober Grid: An app connecting sober individuals for peer support.

For additional mental health resources, consult national helpline databases.

Caring for Yourself While Supporting Your Partner

Supporting someone with alcohol concerns can be challenging. It’s important to prioritize your own well-being and seek support if needed.

Opening dialogue may feel difficult initially, but professional guidance and support networks can make a significant difference.

Ultimately, the goal is to find help that ensures neither of you faces this journey alone.

Read more:

• Conditions A-Z
• Addiction
• Alcohol Addiction

References

1. Skrzynski CJ, Creswell KG. Systematic review and meta-analysis on solitary drinking and alcohol issues in adults. Addiction. 2021;116(9):2289-2303.
2. Corbin WR, et al. Risk mechanisms in solitary drinkers. Addict Behav. 2020;102:106147.
3. Skrzynski CJ, Creswell KG. Solitary drinking and alcohol problems in youth: systematic review. Addiction. 2020;115(11):1989-2007.
4. Gilman JM, et al. Brain imaging study on alcohol’s rewarding and anxiolytic effects. J Neurosci. 2008;28(18):4583-4591.

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