When you see someone you love struggling with an addiction to alcohol, helping them recover can be a touchy situation. Seeing a loved one suffer with alcohol addiction can be painful for both you and them, but recovery is not only possible, but within reach as long as you're willing to help them along the way.

Believe it or not, alcohol is a very powerful drug. While it suppresses the central nervous system, it also makes people feel very relaxed which can lead to some pretty erratic behavior. Look for the following signs in a loved one that may indicate they have an addiction to alcohol:

• Excessive pre-occupation with liquor * Avoiding activities because they are drunk * Not wanting to participate in functions that don't have alcohol available * Sneaking away for long periods of time and then returning with glazed eyes or erratic behavior * Slurred words * Excessively blood shot eyes * Drinking large amounts of alcohol just so they can get the same feelings

Many people who have an addiction to alcohol will deny they have a problem. As a person who loves them, it's up to you to help them realize that their drinking is affecting not only their life and their health but that of those around them. An intervention might be necessary to help your loved one realize that they are addicted to alcohol.

Helping a loved one recover from alcohol addiction is a tall order - even for the most experienced person. It takes a lot of strength and a lot of persistence to help your loved one realize that they actually need the help you are offering.

Recovery is a difficult process, but it can be made easier with the support and caring that can be supplied by family and friends. When you are sincere in your effort to help, your loved one has the best chance of recovering from their addiction to alcohol. Often, people with addictions feel alone and unloved. Showing your support can make all the difference in a full recovery.

Your loved one's addiction to alcohol did not happen overnight. That means that recovery won't happen overnight either. It takes time, love, understanding, and support. The fact that you have concerns about this person you care about is a huge step forward for them and for you. Once they know they have your unconditional support, they are more likely to step forward and seek recovery.

Helping a loved one recover from alcohol addiction can be a painful process. When you have a sincere desire to help them heal, you will become an integral part of their recovery process. Everyone needs support at some time in their life. There's never been a better time to offer up YOUR support than helping them recover from an addiction to alcohol!