Weekend Binge Drinking: 4 Signs You Might Be a "Weekend Alcoholic"

The term "weekend alcoholic" might be new to you, but chances are the behavior isn't. Many people enjoy going out on the weekends, celebrating with friends, and indulging in one or two (or one too many) alcoholic beverages at bars, clubs, and parties. Others prefer to sit back on the couch and take a load off with their favorite bottle of wine after a stressful week.

Going out (or staying in) and drinking on the weekends seems harmless—until it isn't. So when does a casual Friday night drink become more than that—and when does someone cross into the territory of weekend alcoholism?

Here are four signs you should be aware of, from yourself or loved ones, that may indicate a more serious drinking problem than just a weekend of celebrations. 

1. Hard Comedown on Sunday or Monday

Do you feel compounded guilt about your weekend drinking habits come Sunday or Monday? It's a feeling commonly referred to as a "moral hangover" and often closely related to the new term, "Sunday Scaries." If this sounds familiar, it might be a sign that your drinking is more than just good fun.

Another thing to look out for is alcohol withdrawal symptoms. If you experience severe headaches, nausea, tremors, anxiety, or hallucinations, these may be signs of withdrawal. Any of these indicate your condition may warrant professional help.

2. Inability to Stop After One or Two Drinks

Love going out with friends or staying in and enjoying some wine and a movie by yourself? If you can't stop after just one or two drinks, that is cause for concern. 

It's certainly okay to have more than two drinks each weekend. However, the habit of not managing your drinking and stopping when you should is a significant problem that may be more serious.

3. Justifying Alcohol as a Reward

Too often, people like to use alcohol as a reward for themselves to incentivize particular behavior. But sometimes, this mindset can be a way to justify drinking. 

Instead of seeing alcohol as a reward, try setting yourself up with a different, healthier reward. Think takeout from your favorite spot or a new handbag you've been eyeing. 

4. Acting Differently When You're Drunk

Do you do and say things while you're drinking that you would never do when sober? You should pause and reflect on this different side of you that your drinking brings out in you. 

Making risky decisions, acting more aggressive, getting violent, or risking your safety and that of others are significant warning signs. They indicate that your weekend binge drinking should slow down or stop.

Things like drinking and driving, blowing up at rude remarks, or becoming physically aggressive are also alarming. These are causes of concern, and you should address them as such.

Final Thoughts

Drinking on the weekends isn't a crime, but it is a habit that you should monitor carefully. You want to ensure it doesn't transition into "weekend alcoholism." 

If you're having trouble with any of the above, it might be time to reevaluate your drinking habits or seek professional help.