Drinking to Blackout Every Night: A Symptom of Alcoholism?

Is alcohol abuse at the level of blackout drinking every day normal? My experience may come as a surprise, as I am 73 and have been drinking regularly since the 1980s, maintaining a routine that includes primarily nighttime consumption. However, the reality is that getting blackout drunk every night is not a sign of normal behavior. It is, in fact, indicative of severe alcoholism and can be incredibly dangerous.

Dangers of Blackout Drinking

Blackout drinking, also known as grayout drinking, is characterized by limited or no memory of the events that occurred while intoxicated. The behavior is alarming because it puts individuals at significant risk. People who blackout while drinking may engage in life-threatening actions such as throwing up in their own vomit, arguing with a person with a weapon, attempting suicide, or driving with children in the car.

The Underlying Issues

Blackout drinking is often a symptom of a deeper issue—self-hatred and an unhealthy relationship with oneself. One's behavior when they are so intoxicated that they cannot recall events suggests a desire to obliterate self-consciousness and cease being a sentient human. This level of behavior paints a picture of someone who has deep-seated issues with their identity and well-being.

Personal Experiences

I recall my younger days when blackout drinking was frequent, especially in my early twenties. On those occasions, I would develop tunnel vision and experience hearing noises, but I would sleep soundly. However, as I aged, my drinking habits changed. Today, I enjoy a moderate consumption of red wine, staying within the 750ml range of Claret. While I might feel a bit drowsy at times, I maintain a routine that allows for proper sleep and relaxation.

Professional Perspective

The question is not whether blackout drinking is normal but whether it is pathological. This is harmful and reflective of a disease state. Alcoholism is characterized by repeated and chronic alcohol abuse, which can be medically harmful. When one drinks to the point of blackout daily, it is a dangerous condition that requires immediate attention.

Seeking Help

It is crucial to seek help if this behavior is occurring. Never stop drinking suddenly—always reduce gradually and ideally seek the assistance of a medical professional. If you or someone you know is engaging in blackout drinking every day, it is time to start the recovery process. Professional help is available and can make a significant difference in overcoming severe alcoholism.

Conclusion: Blackout drinking every night is a symptom of severe alcoholism, and it is not a normal behavior. If you or someone close to you is struggling with this issue, it is essential to seek professional help to recover and improve the quality of life.