Is alcohol ever the answer

When you don't drink, you notice withdrawal symptoms (such as shakiness, sweating, or trouble sleeping), or you drink just to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

You drink more often than you want to, or you drink larger amounts than you want to.

You have tried unsuccessfully to quit drinking or to cut back the amount you drink.

You spend a lot of time drinking and recovering from drinking.

You have given up other activities that are important to you so that you can drink.

You continue to drink even though you know your drinking might be causing problems.

How are alcohol problems diagnosed and treated?

Your doctor may diagnose alcohol abuse and dependence by asking questions about your symptoms and past health. He or she will give you a physical exam and sometimes a mental health assessment. Keep in mind that you will need to honestly answer questions about your drinking for your doctor to be able to help you. Further testing may be done to look for other health problems related to alcohol.

Admitting that you have a drinking problem can be hard, but it is the first step to recovery. Although starting to drink again is common, alcohol problems can be overcome.

People typically do not seek treatment for alcohol abuse until they are ready. They must accept that they are addicted and no longer have control of their lives. Sometimes family members point out the problem. Other times, people recognize that they have a problem after they have been arrested or lost a job or had other setbacks as a result of their drinking.