Episode 245 - Early Signs of Problem Drinking During Divorce Stress

Today on The D Shift, Mardi Winder welcomes back Amber Hollingsworth, master addiction counselor and founder of Hope for Families Recovery Center, for an important conversation about recognizing the early signs of problem drinking, especially during times of stress such as divorce.

Amber shares her professional insights along with her personal experience, explaining that alcohol dependence does not always look like what people expect. Many individuals who appear highly functional may still be struggling, and alcohol use often exists on a spectrum rather than a clear-cut problem.

Mardi and Amber explore how major life stressors like divorce can lead people to use alcohol as a coping mechanism. Over time, this can develop into patterns of self-medicating, where individuals begin to track, manage, or hide their drinking, often without fully recognizing the impact.

The conversation highlights how awareness and early intervention can make a meaningful difference, without necessarily requiring extreme or immediate measures.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How to recognize early signs of problem drinking

• Why high-functioning individuals may overlook alcohol-related issues

• How stress and divorce can influence drinking habits

• The warning signs of self-medicating with alcohol

• Practical ways to evaluate and adjust your relationship with alcohol

Amber also shares a practical starting point for those questioning their habits, including the value of taking a short break from alcohol to gain clarity. The discussion touches on social pressure, boundary setting, and the unexpected benefits many people experience when they reduce or eliminate alcohol.

This episode offers a compassionate and non-judgmental perspective for anyone who is curious about their drinking habits and looking for a thoughtful, realistic approach to change.

About the Guest

Amber Hollingsworth is a master addiction counselor, founder of Hope For Families Recovery Center, and creator of the YouTube channel Put The Shovel Down. With over two decades of experience, she’s helped thousands of families navigate addiction recovery using innovative, relationship-focused strategies like the Invisible Intervention. Known for her relatable, no-nonsense approach, Amber empowers families to outsmart addiction, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild trust. Her expertise and compassionate style make her a sought-after podcast guest, offering practical advice and hope to families facing the challenges of addiction.

For Amber’s gift: https://www.familyrecoveryacademy.online/understanding-boundaries-in-addiction

To connect with Amber:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT8PE1v0xFR9zLXOijxM6hg

IG : https://www.instagram.com/puttheshoveldown/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/addictionrecoveryhope

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-hollingsworth-833111b8/