The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reported that 95,000 people die annually from alcohol-related events. It makes alcohol the third most preventable cause of death in the United States. Because this substance is both legal and easy to obtain, many people eventually develop a dependency. If someone begins to drink more often, they may wonder if they are an alcoholic.
Alcohol use disorder is a pattern of behavior characterized by a person’s inability to control their drinking. It can include possessing withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit, drinking despite issues caused by doing so, and a preoccupation with alcohol. This guide examines some of the traits of this disorder, a quiz to determine behavioral patterns and treatment options.
Alcohol Use Disorder Tendencies
People with alcohol use disorder exhibit some or many of these behaviors:
- An inability in controlling how much they drink.
- Repeated attempts to reduce drinking but struggling to do so.
- Drinking interferes with social, work, and other activities.
- Consuming alcohol in situations that could lead to danger, such as swimming, driving, and more.
- Drinking more to receive the same effect.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like sweating, nausea, or shakes.
Quiz: Am I An Alcoholic?
This quiz can help you identify patterns of behavior in yourself or loved ones that might signify problems with consuming alcohol.
How often do you drink alcoholic beverages?
A.) Never
B.) Once per month
C.) 2-4 per month
D.) 2-3 times weekly
E.) More than 4 times weekly
How many alcoholic drinks do you consume when drinking?
A.) 1-2
B.) 3-4
C.) 5-6
D.) 7-9
E.) 10 or more
How frequently has drinking prevented you from engaging in other activities? (missing work, social events, etc.)
A.) 0
B.) Not a monthly occurrence
C.) Once per month
D.) Weekly
E.) Daily or once every couple of days
How often do you drink in the morning to get started?
A.) Never
B.) Less than monthly
C.) Monthly
D.) Weekly
E.) Either daily or on an almost daily basis
How many times do you not remember a night after drinking?
A.) Never
B.) Not monthly
C.) Monthly
D.) Weekly
E.) Daily or almost daily
Has your drinking resulted in the injury of others or property?
A.) Yes
B.) No
Has a relative, friend, or colleague expressed concern over your drinking?
A.) Yes
B.) No
If your answered “D,” “E,” or “Yes” to the questions above, it may be time to seek treatment for a substance use disorder.
We’re Here to Help
This condition is unfortunately very common. Over 14.5 million people ages 12 and above have alcohol use disorder. If you consume alcohol frequently and share some of the symptoms listed above, know help is closer than you think.
Feel free to reach out to speak with one of our alcohol treatment specialists. We offer a variety of treatment solutions tailored to your needs.
