When someone is pulled over for drunk driving, the system often assumes that the driver has a problem with alcohol. Courts frequently order alcohol treatment or education as part of driving under the influence (DUI) sentence. A DUI conviction does not necessarily mean that someone has an alcohol abuse problem. However, sometimes a DUI arrest can be a sign that someone has a problem with alcohol, especially if there have been multiple arrests.
Signs Of An Alcohol Problem
It’s hard to be objective when it comes to figuring out whether you have a problem with alcohol. There are some signs you can look out for:
- Lying about or hiding your drinking
- Drinking to relax or feel better
- “Blacking out” repeatedly
- Being unable to stop drinking once you start
- Drinking and driving
- Neglecting your work, school, and household responsibilities
- Having trouble in your relationships
- Being able to drink more than you used to
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Trying to quit but being unable to
It is important to note that having one or two of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean that you have an alcohol problem. But if you’ve noticed a few of these signs, you may want to look at the possibility that drinking is an issue. You can also take the self-test put out by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence for more information.
Getting Help
If you believe that your alcohol use has become a problem, the smartest thing you can do is to get help now. The good news is that no matter how severe the problem is, treatment can help. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism offers some great tips on how to get the help you need. In addition, the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration operates a national helpline where you can get treatment referrals and help with services. You can also consult with an alcohol abuse therapist to get help with your issues. Your primary care physician can also be a useful resource for treatment referrals and help with medication options.
If You’ve Been Arrested, You Need A Lawyer
If your alcohol problem has led to an arrest, you need an experienced lawyer at your side to help you get the best possible outcome. Contact the lawyers at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, online or at (301) 262-7005 to schedule your free consultation.
Contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Charles County and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste 201 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 262-7005
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Frederick Office
25 E Patrick St #200 Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 381-1993
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Rockville Office
11140 Rockville Pike 550-J Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 364-3195
Available 24/7