The Warning Signs of Alcoholism When does the social drinker become a problem drinker? Although it is impossible to draw a definitive line, experts agree that an important clue is when someone begins to lose control over his actions. For instance, the alcoholic may know that he is drinking too much- but is virtually unable to stop. The following quiz, from the National Council on Alcoholism, Inc., will help you recognize if you are suffering from the disease. Answer each question Yes or No. Are you having an increasing number of financial and work problems?
If you answered Yes to any of the questions, you have some of the symptoms that may indicate alcoholism. “Yes” answers to several of the questions indicate the following stages of alcoholism: Questions 1-8 – Early stage. Questions 9-21 – Middle stage. Questions 22-26 – The beginning of the Final stage. What you can do: For immediate treatment information, visit here. This is for you if you personally struggle with alcohol or love someone who does. If you suspect that alcoholism is a problem for you or someone you know, contact: Alcoholics Anonymous has chapters in nearly every city and small town. Look under A. A. in your telephone directory. If you can’t find a nearby group, write to Alcoholics Anonymous General Service Headquarters, P O Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10017. Al-Anon Family Groups work closely with Alcoholics Anonymous and are geared to the friends or relatives of alcoholics. Al-Teens is an offshoot of Al-Anon’s group efforts. Children of alcoholics gain support and guidance from others who face similar problems. Check your local directory. National Council on Alcoholism also has local chapters. Look under “Alcoholism Information Center” in your phone directory. The national office to contact is at 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016. City or State programs on Alcoholism are government-run counseling and referral services, generally limited to the big cities. To find out if one is located near you, write to Alcohol and Drug Problems of North America, 1130 17th St. N.W., Suite 615, Washington, D.C. 20036. |