Alcoholism Assessment Questions

Alcoholism is a serious problem and when someone that you care about drinks excessively, it is normal to worry. Naturally, you'll want to ask questions about the behavior. This can cause the heavy drinker or alcoholic to become defensive. It is normal for that person to feel uncomfortable. Remember, he is suffering, too. Show you care and that help is available.

Is He a Habitual Drinker?

• Ask questions.

  Someone that you love may drink daily, but wait until after work and consume liquor in private. This makes the problem harder to detect. Binge drinking is also difficult to recognize. That is because the drinker takes time away from alcohol, sometimes for months. Daily or binge drinking will eventually affect all areas of the individual's life. Don't shy away from discussing the problem.

Does her Drinking Cause Concern?

• Notice if the behavior is getting worse.

  Large amounts of alcohol dulls the senses. If someone that you're close to consumes too much alcohol, it may seem that that person no longer cares for friends or relatives. Even though it might be tempting, don't accuse someone of drinking too much or being unfeeling. Instead, ask her if she consumes six or more alcoholic beverages daily, drives while under the influence or treats others poorly while intoxicated. This may determine whether the person is aware of the effect that her drinking has on others. Asking questions helps her see what she's doing, but accusing a person only causes her suspicions to rise.

Does He Drink Too Much?

• Does action and behavior match?

  If your friend repeatedly makes promises to drink only two drinks when he attends parties or weddings, but finds it almost impossible to stop, excessive drinking exists. Ask your friend whether he loses count of how much is consumed. Family members can help a person consider treatment.