Physical harm as a result of drinking (accidents or fights)
Drinking alone
The ability to consume a good deal of alcohol without getting intoxicated
A preoccupation with drinking alcohol and/or cravings
Suffering from blackouts or memory lapses while drinking
Using alcohol to alter one’s mood
Binge drinking (periodic, extreme overindulgence) - consuming five or more standard drinks (male), or four or more drinks (female) in one occasion.
Hiding alcohol or sneaking drinks
Drinking prior to events or social gatherings where alcohol will be served
Job loss or complaints by employers regarding one’s drinking
Relationship or marital problems as a result of too much drinking
Complaints from friends, relatives or co-workers about problem drinking incidents
Alcohol related arrests: public intoxication, DUI, lewd behavior, altercations
Behavioral changes while intoxicated: anger, sexual promiscuity, rash acts
Feeling remorseful or humiliated by drinking-related behavior
Social rejection or loss of friendship as a result of one’s drinking
Neglect of other activities
Drinking and driving or drinking in dangerous situations
Changes to personality
Identifying Addiction: Know the Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
While the above indicators are signs of alcohol abuse, a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder necessitates physical dependence on alcohol. The most common physical signs of alcohol addiction are:
Increased alcohol tolerance: more and more alcohol is needed to feel its effects
Inability to quit drinking despite many attempts and desire to stop
Loss of control (one cannot control the amount of alcohol he consumes at any give time)
Alcohol consumption or other drugs are required to avoid withdrawal symptoms: nausea, shakiness, anxiety, sweating, and, with more severe cases, seizures, delirium (or hallucinations)
Craving for alcohol that can contribute to relapse if one attempts to abstain
If you or someone you know is suffering from or at risk of substance use disorder
