Alcohol is often a part of a friendship group. The pub or a local bar provides a meeting point for millions of friendship groups around the world, but at the same time, alcohol can be incredibly damaging to friendships, particularly when people push themselves beyond their limits.
More and more people globally are suffering from alcoholism today, and whether that is yourself or a member of your friendship group, getting help and moving into alcohol rehab recovery is vital, not only for your friendships but for health reasons, too.
Alcohol can impact friendships in all manner of ways. Here are just a few examples to look out for, and if you spot them, then seeking the right drug and alcohol detox help could well be key to getting friendships and people’s lives back on track.
Altered Behaviour and Miscommunications
Alcohol has a knack for lowering inhibitions and altering behavior. What might start as innocent banter during a night out can escalate into misunderstandings due to impaired judgment. Words spoken under the influence can be misconstrued, leading to hurt feelings and strained relationships.
The line between friendly teasing and hurtful comments can become blurred, leaving both parties bewildered by the unintended consequences.
Frequency of Gatherings
While sharing a drink can enhance the bonding experience, excessive alcohol consumption can affect the frequency of gatherings. Friends who used to meet for wholesome activities may find themselves gravitating towards alcohol-centric events, inadvertently limiting the range of shared experiences. This shift in focus can alienate those who choose not to partake in heavy drinking, potentially creating divides within the group.
Unequal Social Dynamics
You might not think it, but alcohol can totally alter friendship dynamics and lead to a person taking over. Those who consume more may perceive themselves as the life of the party, while those who opt for moderation might feel overlooked. Such imbalances can lead to feelings of inadequacy or resentment, eroding the genuine camaraderie that forms the foundation of strong friendships.
Conflicts and Unresolved Issues
Alcohol-induced disagreements often stem from heightened emotions and impaired reasoning. What could be minor disagreements under normal circumstances can escalate when fueled by alcohol.
Unresolved conflicts can fester, causing a rift between friends. The blurred lines between intoxication and genuine sentiments can lead to the exacerbation of issues that might otherwise have been peacefully resolved, and it can become ever harder to solve those problems the longer they go on.
