Signs of Alcoholism
* A strong urge to consume alcohol (craving alcohol)
* The inability to stop drinking, once started.
* A physical dependence involving withdrawal symptoms including nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety.
* An elevated tolerance to alcohol.
To understand how alcoholism might be affecting your life, take a look at the statements below. If three or more of them, occurring at any time in the same 12-month period, apply to you or you observe these traits in a family member or friend, you should consider talking to your doctor or healthcare provider.
* It takes more alcohol to get “high” than it did before.
* I have a few drinks to decrease my shakiness, nausea, or sweating.
* I can’t stop drinking once I start.
* I spend a lot of time thinking about drinking.
* I have tried and failed to cut down or stop.
* I have alcohol-related medical or behavioral problems.
* I have cut down on social or professional activities in order to drink.