How to Determine if You Have an Alcohol Abuse Problem

One of the difficulties assessing if you have an alcohol abuse problem is that alcohol intoxication impairs judgment and critical thinking skills. Additionally, when someone does have an alcohol abuse problem, denial makes accurate self-assessment difficult. When asking yourself how to determine if you have an alcohol abuse problem, it’s important to look at objective criteria in order to gauge your drinking and its severity.

How to Determine if You Have an Alcohol Abuse Problem?

If you’re wondering if you have an alcohol abuse problem, try reviewing the questions listed below and answer them as honestly as you can. You can also ask a loved one or friend to provide an objective perspective on questions you might have difficulty finding answers to. If you find that you answer “yes” to three or more questions, you may have an alcohol abuse problem and should make an appointment to call an intake specialist at an alcohol recovery treatment center or a trusted doctor.

Increased level of tolerance.
Are you drinking a greater amount of alcohol to achieve the desired effect or feeling? Do you drink an entire six-pack now instead of a single can of beer?
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
If you take a break from drinking, do you have physical effects such as sweating or anxiety attacks? Do you feel jittery or nervous when you go without alcohol for a several hours?

Drinking more that you anticipated.
Are you drinking more than you wanted to a given episode? Did you plan on only having one cocktail and ended up having three cocktails?
Lack of control.
Are you unable to stop drinking when you want to? Are you breaking things or offending people when you are drunk?

Persistent and intrusive thoughts.
Do you anticipate and plan the next time you will get the opportunity to consume alcohol? Do you know where your next drink is going to come from?

Change in patterns.
Are you ignoring family, friends and activities that you used to enjoy? Would you rather drink than spend free time doing activities that you enjoy or with those you love?

Negative results of alcohol use.
Are you experiencing physical problems or getting into trouble because of drinking, only to find yourself continuing to drink?