Questions to Determine Whether You Have an Alcohol Problem

Experts note that alcohol is a problem if it has had an impact upon your work, health or home life. Also, if you regularly think about drinking, you may have an alcohol problem. Another marker to use to determine if alcohol has become a problem is if you have not been able to quit drinking on your own or if you find yourself drinking more than you had planned to.

Many ways are available for measuring whether you might be developing an alcohol problem. A commonly used test, in which one question answered 'yes' may indicate an alcohol problem, includes these questions:

· Do you feel a need to cut down on your drinking?
· Are you annoyed by criticism of your drinking?
· Do you feel guilty about your drinking?
· Do you sometimes awaken and feel as if you need an eye-opener in the morning?

How can you really know if you have developed an alcohol problem? Often, the people in your life will see the problem before you do, since it is very difficult to admit having an alcohol problem. Also, many recovered alcoholics note that they initially became aware of their problem when they began drinking more than they intended or more than was safe, such as when they had to drive a car while intoxicated.

The reasons you might drink are complicated. Some people use alcohol to relieve anxiety, depression, tension, loneliness, self-doubt or unhappiness. Additionally, it appears if you have a history of alcoholism in your family you may well be at risk for the disease. Also, men seem to be at greater risk for becoming alcoholics than women.

Furthermore, you should consider that alcohol presents health problems beyond the well-known cirrhosis of the liver. Alcohol can cause stomach problems due to bleeding ulcers or irritate your stomach's lining. Also, if you are pregnant, alcohol can harm your unborn child. Alcohol is also a major cause of deaths and injuries resulting from alcohol-related injuries.

If you have a drinking problem, the only way to regain control of you life is to quit drinking alcohol. While it is difficult to quit, the rewards include much improved health and improved relationships.

If you decide to seek assistance, a very good place to start is with your doctor, as alcoholism is a disease which your doctor is well versed in. She can provide you with lists of resources, including individual counselors to work with you and group support which has been proven invaluable as you learn you are not alone.