A drink to relax after work, another at a gathering with friends, one more to sleep better, a beer to deal with the heat or fatigue — what seems normal can hide a silent dependence. Alcohol use is deeply normalized in our culture, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless.

In Connecticut, according to data from the 2023 Connecticut BRFSS (Connecticut Department of Public Health) and the 2023 Connecticut School Health Survey (YRBS), 16.2% of adults engage in excessive drinking (19.1% of men vs. 13.5% of women). Among adolescents, 21.1% report current alcohol use (17.6% of young men vs. 24.5% of young women). In immigrant or socially vulnerable communities, alcohol use often serves an emotional function — to calm anxiety, insomnia, sadness, or loneliness.

These statistics underscore the ongoing need for prevention and education around alcohol use, especially among young people and vulnerable populations. What begins as a habit can become a problem. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:

• Physical signs: tremors, excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and, in severe cases, liver damage. These symptoms may indicate physical dependence, in which the body begins to need alcohol to function normally.
• Psychological symptoms: anxiety, depression, mood swings, irritability, and, in some cases, hallucinations. Alcohol can disrupt the brain’s neurotransmitters, leading to these psychological symptoms. Psychological dependence can be just as strong as physical dependence, making a person feel that they need to drink to get through the day.
• Social problems: family conflict, trouble at work, social isolation, and financial strain. Excessive drinking can harm personal and professional relationships, leading to arguments, missed work and, in extreme cases, job loss. Social isolation can be both a cause and a consequence of heavy drinking, creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break.

Alcohol use doesn’t only affect the person who drinks — it also significantly impacts their family, especially their children. Children are keen observers and learn behaviors and attitudes from the adults around them. When they see parents or caregivers rely on alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or negative emotions, they may internalize the idea that alcohol is an acceptable way to deal with life’s challenges.

It is possible to break that cycle — with help, without shame, and with respect. Seeking professional support, such as therapists or support groups, can be a crucial first step for those struggling with alcohol use. Education and awareness also play an essential role in preventing and addressing alcohol misuse.

Milton Capón Bermeo is a clinical psychologist with 18 years of experience in Ecuador in the areas  of clinical care, public health, and social policy, a student of the Danbury PLTI Class of 2024, and Co-Founder of the ABYA YALA Migrant Community. To reach him, call (203) 809-0603.