When drinking feels normal, warning signs are easy to miss
Behavioral health expert highlights early signs of problematic alcohol use during Alcohol Awareness Month
4/2/2026
Tanya Hoy, Aspirus Clinical Substance Use Disorder Coordinator
Excessive alcohol use is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, responsible for nearly 180,000 deaths each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even with that level of impact, many people experiencing early signs of problematic drinking do not recognize it in themselves.
“Alcohol is one of the most socially accepted substances in our culture today,” said Tanya Hoy, Clinical Substance Use Disorder Coordinator with Aspirus Health. “It’s common in everyday settings, which can make it easy to overlook when use begins to impact our health.”
Changes in alcohol use tend to happen gradually rather than at a clear turning point. What begins as occasional or social drinking can become more frequent without standing out as a problem.
“It really comes down to whether you feel in control of your drinking,” Hoy said. “Are you able to set limits and stay within them, or are you going beyond that? Is it starting to affect your daily life or how you’re coping with things?”
It does not always look obvious. More often, it shows up in patterns.
Someone may begin drinking more frequently than intended, need more to feel the same effect, or rely on alcohol to cope with stress. It can begin to affect daily responsibilities or create a sense that something is off.
As those patterns continue, the impact can become more visible in daily routines and relationships.
One of the more serious warning signs is isolation.
“When someone starts to drink alone or begins to withdraw, that is a warning sign that something deeper may be going on,” Hoy said.
For many people, the clearest signal is internal. Questioning whether alcohol use feels different, or no longer fully within control, is often the first indication that something may need attention.
“If you are questioning your drinking at all, that is important,” Hoy said. “Shame should not be a factor. There are people to talk to.”
Talking with a primary care provider is often the first step. Being honest about alcohol use, even if it feels uncomfortable, helps ensure the right support and care.
If you do not have a primary care provider, visit search.aspirus.org/providers or call (833) 811-4176 to get connected.
Behavioral health services are also available for those seeking additional support, whether for themselves or a loved one. To learn more about the types of care and support available, visit aspirus.org/mental-health-treatment-counseling.
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