Alcohol can be a fun addition to a weekend gathering, but for some, it becomes a crutch.

Drinking every weekend may seem like an innocent habit, but what lies beneath could be much more intricate and damaging than we think.

Psychology suggests that those who feel the need to get drunk every weekend usually exhibit certain behaviors. And it’s not just about the hangover.

Understanding these behaviors can help us empathize with these individuals and potentially provide supportive guidance.

Let’s take a look at some behaviors typically shared by people who need to drink every weekend.

1) Escapism

Psychologists often point to escapism as a reason for excessive drinking.

This isn’t about an adventurous escape to a tropical island, but about escaping from the pressures and realities of everyday life.

For many people, the weekend serves as a break from the weekly grind.

But for those who feel the need to get drunk every weekend, it might be something deeper. They might be using alcohol as a tool to disconnect from their reality.

This form of escapism can manifest in many ways – from avoiding personal issues to seeking a temporary high, all in an attempt to create a buffer between themselves and their problems.

It’s important to remember that this is only one possible behavior, and not a definitive diagnosis.

Understanding this more deeply could help us approach such individuals with compassion and understanding, rather than judgment.

2) Social necessity

I’ve personally observed this behavior in friends and even in myself at times.

There’s a certain pressure to fit in, to be part of the crowd. And often, that means drinking when everyone else is.

You know, the classic scenario – it’s a Friday night, everyone’s at the bar, and you feel almost obliged to keep up with the rounds.

In my early twenties, I distinctly remember feeling like I had to drink to be part of the group.

The weekend wasn’t complete without a night out drinking. It was almost as if I equated having fun with getting drunk.

Psychologically speaking, this behavior is linked to a need for acceptance and belonging.

It’s about conforming to societal or peer expectations, even if it means compromising one’s own comfort or health.

We always think of peer pressure as something children and teenagers deal with. The truth is that peer pressure also affects adults and many people drink as a result of peer pressure.

3) Emotional discomfort

There’s a term in psychology called “self-medication” – it’s the practice of using substances such as alcohol to cope with emotional discomfort.

Alcohol can temporarily numb feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, which is why some people might feel a compelling need to drink over the weekend.

Did you know that research shows a strong link between alcohol use and mental health disorders?

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nearly 37% of alcohol abusers also have at least one serious mental health disorder.

While it might provide a temporary relief from distressing emotions, it’s important to note that this isn’t a healthy or effective long-term method for dealing with emotional discomfort.

If you notice this behavior in someone, it might be time to encourage them to seek professional help.

4) Habit formation

Habits can be tricky things. Once they’re formed, they can be challenging to break.

For some people, drinking every weekend might start as a social activity. A way to unwind after a busy week, perhaps. But over time, it can become a habit.

The brain creates a strong connection between the action (drinking) and the reward (relaxation, fun, escape).

So, every time the weekend rolls around, there’s an almost automatic pull towards alcohol.

Recognizing this behavior can be the first step in breaking the cycle. After all, understanding the problem is half the solution.

It’s crucial to remember that habits can be changed and replaced with healthier alternatives.

5) Lowered inhibitions

We’ve all heard the saying – “In vino veritas,” or “In wine, there is truth.”

Alcohol has a way of lowering inhibitions and encouraging people to act in ways they usually wouldn’t.

For some, this might be the allure of drinking every weekend. It gives them a chance to let loose, to be more outgoing, or to do things they might feel too constrained to do otherwise.

This behavior is often linked to individuals who feel restricted or repressed in their daily lives.

The weekend drinking sessions provide an outlet for them to express parts of themselves they usually keep hidden.

While this might provide temporary relief, it’s not a sustainable way to cope with feelings of repression. It could even lead to regrettable decisions made under the influence.

6) Loneliness

This one tugs at the heartstrings a bit.

Loneliness has a way of creeping up on you, and for some, alcohol becomes a companion to fill that void. This is especially true for those who feel the need to get drunk every weekend.

It’s not necessarily about physical loneliness. Someone can be surrounded by people and still feel incredibly alone. It’s about emotional connection, or the lack thereof.

For these individuals, alcohol might provide a temporary illusion of connection, of fitting in, or even of simply not being alone with their thoughts.

Recognizing this behavior can help us understand the underlying pain driving this need to drink.

More importantly, it can encourage us to reach out, to offer a listening ear or a comforting word. After all, human connection is one of the most potent antidotes to loneliness.

7) Lack of self-confidence

I remember a time when I felt incredibly unsure of myself. I would second-guess my every move and constantly worry about how others perceived me.

Back then, alcohol was like a magic potion that seemed to wash away those insecurities, even if just for a few hours.

It gave me the courage to be more talkative, more outgoing, and seemingly more confident.

This lack of self-confidence is a common thread among many who feel the need to get drunk every weekend. Alcohol can provide a temporary boost, making them feel more at ease in social situations.

It’s important to remember that true confidence comes from within and can’t be found at the bottom of a bottle.

Recognizing this behavior can help individuals seek healthier ways to build self-esteem and confidence.

8) Thrill-seeking

Believe it or not, some people are just wired for adventure and thrill. They thrive on the adrenaline rush, the unpredictability, and the excitement that comes with it.

For these individuals, getting drunk every weekend might be a way to satisfy their thrill-seeking tendencies.

Alcohol can add an element of unpredictability and risk, making even a regular weekend seem like an adventure.

While there’s nothing wrong with seeking excitement, it’s important to recognize when it starts to negatively impact one’s health and well-being.

If you notice this behavior in someone, it might be worth suggesting healthier and safer ways to satisfy their thirst for adventure.

9) Unresolved trauma

This is perhaps the most serious and sensitive reason. Unresolved trauma can drive people to seek solace in alcohol.

For some, getting drunk every weekend can be a way to numb the pain, to forget, even if it’s just temporarily.

It’s a coping mechanism, albeit an unhealthy one.

If you notice this behavior in someone, it’s crucial to approach them with empathy and understanding.

Encourage them to seek professional help, as dealing with trauma requires more than just willpower, it requires expert guidance and support.

It’s about understanding, not judging

Weekend drinking may seem like a harmless habit, but for some, it’s tied to deeper issues.

Whether it’s escaping reality, feeling pressured by social norms, or coping with loneliness or trauma, the reasons behind this behavior are complex.

By understanding these patterns—like using alcohol to lower inhibitions, seeking thrills, or managing emotional pain—we can approach those who struggle with empathy rather than judgment.

Supporting them through healthier habits and offering help when needed can make a big difference in their well-being.