Problem Drinking – A Closer Look
As an addictions counselor in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, I’ve had countless conversations with people who ask, “Do I drink too much?” It’s a fair question—especially in a city like Chicago, where happy hours, Cubs games, and weekend brunches are often paired with a drink in hand.
The truth is, drinking is part of our culture. It shows up in celebrations, stress relief, dating, social events, and sometimes just because it’s Tuesday. But at what point does it become too much?
Related: Therapist for alcohol problems in Chicago
If you’re asking the question, that alone might be a sign that something is shifting. So, let’s break it down. Here are 7 real-world, non-clinical signs that your drinking might be worth taking a closer look at.
1. You’re Not Sure What “Moderation” Means Anymore
Maybe you started with one or two drinks a night, but now it’s creeping up. You tell yourself you’ll “just have one,” but end up finishing the bottle or losing count at the bar. If moderation feels like a moving target, your drinking might be taking up more space than you realize.
2. You Drink to Feel Normal—or to Escape
Drinking to relax or unwind after work is common. But if you find yourself needing alcohol just to feel okay or to cope with things like anxiety, stress, or loneliness, that’s a red flag. It’s especially common in fast-paced neighborhoods like Lakeview, where burnout and pressure can sneak up on us.
This can also show up in marginalized communities, like among LGBTQ individuals, where alcohol might feel like a way to manage discrimination or stress. If your drinking is tied to emotional survival, it’s worth talking about.
3. People Around You Are Starting to Notice
Has anyone gently (or not so gently) asked about your drinking? Do you find yourself hiding how much you drink, drinking before you go out, or joking about it to brush off concern?
When the people who care about you start raising eyebrows—or when you start hiding your behavior—it usually means something deeper is going on.
4. You’ve Had Some Regrets
Waking up with a hangover is one thing. Waking up with regret is another. Maybe you said something you didn’t mean, sent that text you wish you hadn’t, or made a risky decision you normally wouldn’t have.
If alcohol is leading you to make choices that don’t align with who you are or what you value, that’s not something to ignore.
5. Your Health (or Sleep or Energy) Is Slipping
Alcohol has a sneaky way of affecting your body and mind, even if you don’t realize it at first. You might notice:
- Waking up groggy or anxious
- Difficulty focusing at work
- Digestive issues
- Increased irritability or mood swings
If you’re consistently feeling off and can’t quite put your finger on why—your drinking might be a part of the puzzle.
6. You’ve Tried to Cut Back… But It Hasn’t Stuck
Maybe you’ve told yourself, “No more drinking during the week,” or “Just two drinks max.” But those rules slowly fall apart after a stressful day or a social event.
Trying to cut back and not being able to follow through (despite good intentions) is more common than people think. It doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means your relationship with alcohol deserves more attention.
7. You’re Wondering If This Is Normal
If you’ve Googled, “Am I drinking too much?” or clicked on a post like this, it might mean your inner voice is telling you something.
You don’t have to hit “rock bottom” to make a change. Sometimes just not feeling great about how alcohol fits into your life is enough of a reason to reach out and talk to someone.
Summary: It’s Not About Labels—It’s About Your Life
You don’t have to call yourself an “alcoholic” to get curious about your drinking.
At my counseling office in Lakeview, I work with people from all walks of life—young professionals, college students, parents, creatives, LGBTQ folks—who just want to feel more in control, more present, and more themselves.
Related: Therapist for LGBTQ Queer people in Chicago
Whether you want to cut back, take a break, or rethink your relationship with alcohol entirely, you’re not alone. Change doesn’t have to mean giving everything up. It just means starting to choose yourself more often.
Looking for Help in Lakeview, Chicago?
If you’re ready to explore your relationship with alcohol, I’m here to help. My office is located in the heart of Lakeview, just a few blocks from the Belmont Red Line. I offer individual therapy, harm-reduction support, and sober-curious counseling in a judgment-free, LGBTQ-affirming space.
Reach out for a free consultation today. Your future self will thank you.
