How to Identify a Drinking Problem

If you are concerned that either you or someone you know has developed a drinking problem, there are a number of signs you can look for to identify whether this is indeed the case. This can be achieved by observing behavior and by asking questions. A drinking problem, or alcoholism, can be a consequence of particular genetics, upbringing or social environment. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the illness is more likely to occur in cases where an individual suffers from a mental or emotional disorder such as anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask the affected person how regularly she is consuming alcohol. The American Academy of Family Physicians defines a drinking problem in women as more than seven drinks per week. A drinking problem in men is constituted by more than 14 drinks per week. Be aware that an alcohol-dependent individual may lie under questioning because of shame or fear.

• 2

  Look for signs of a possible alcohol dependency. Check for a general lack of personal care, including poor hygiene and not eating. Other signs include smoking more than 20 cigarettes per day, avoiding responsibilities through regular absences from school or work and showing violent or suicidal tendencies. You can also check for injuries that could have been caused by accidents that occurred while under the influence of alcohol such as burns or bruising.

• 3

  Ask the affected person if alcohol is negatively affecting his life in any way. According to HelpGuide.org, this could mean that the dependency on alcohol has attributed to the loss of a job, issues with relatives and loved ones, a range of health problems, blackouts from excessive drinking or legal problems. Ask the person if he drinks alcohol to relax and feel good and to avoid feeling bad. If the answer is yes, then he may have a drinking problem.