There comes a time when you have to be honest with yourself and your issues with alcohol. While we often think of addiction in terms of illicit substances, alcohol addiction is a very real thing. The fact that alcohol is legal and easily accessible means that it's arguably easier for people to become addicted to it.

There are many ways through which alcohol can harm you. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates that 95,000 people die from alcohol-related causes every year. Alcohol-related causes include liver disease, alcohol poisoning, and vehicular accidents with drivers under the influence. This makes alcohol-related causes the third-highest preventable cause of death in the United States.

With that being said, alcohol abuse therapy is available. Let's look into some of the top reasons why you should seek this option.

1. It's Causing Relationship Problems

Did you know that substance abuse is one of the leading causes of divorce in the United States? Couples often conflict over substance issues, and especially alcohol abuse. If you feel as if your relationships, romantic or otherwise, are being affected by your alcohol intake, it might be time to consider alcohol abuse therapy. It's not unheard of for people to lose contact with their loved ones as they struggle with alcohol issues. Don't let this happen to you.

2. Your Mental Health Issues Are Increasing

One of the worst things about alcohol abuse is that it can exacerbate preexisting mental health issues, especially those related to depression. Alcohol is also known to decrease the positive effects of medications that you're taking. If you want to improve your mental health, you may want to stop drinking alcohol, or decrease the amount that you consume.

3. You're Craving Alcohol

If you feel like you can't relax or get through your day without alcohol, it may be time for you to consider alcohol abuse therapy. You should always be able to go a day or two at least without a drink; you shouldn't "need" alcohol in general.

4. It's Affecting Your Job

If you're missing days at work, or experiencing a performance slump due to your drinking, you need to take stock of your alcohol consumption.

The reality is that if alcohol takes over your life, you need to make a change. Alcohol abuse therapy could be the only solution to save your relationships, your job, and your life. You don't have to do this alone -- call to set up an appointment today.