Warning Signs of Problems with Alcohol

There's no question that most people who use alcohol don't develop alcoholism. Still, most people who become alcoholic never thought it would happen to them. Would you know if it was happening to you or someone close to you?

In general terms, alcoholism is a pattern of drinking that causes trouble in the drinker's personal, work or family life. Alcoholism has early warning signs and symptoms, any one of which can signal a developing problem:

• Using alcohol because you have problems or to cope with difficult situations.
• Drinking more than you had planned.
• Becoming a different person when drinking.
• Drinking more often, consuming larger amounts, or both.
• Getting annoyed when others comment about how much you drink.
• Hiding the amount of alcohol you drink from others.
• Being uncomfortable when alcohol is not available.
• Gulping drinks or switching to more "potent" drinks to get the effect more quickly.
• Feeling guilty about your drinking.

It makes no difference how long you've been drinking, what alcoholic beverage you've been using, or whether you drink every day. If you see these signs in yourself or someone you love, it's time to take a look at what drinking alcohol is doing to your life.

There's cause for concern any time you feel drinking is negatively affecting your life. There are places to go for help in dealing with your own alcohol problem or that of someone else.

BRiDGES can help. Call us for confidential assistance at (315) 697-3947.

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BRiDGES   •   3059 Seneca Turnpike, Suite E Canastota, NY 13032   •   (315) 697-3947
©2003 Madison County Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, Inc.  All rights reserved.