If you’re concerned about someone and not sure about whether a problem really exists, use the following as guide to help you make a determination. If you can answer yes to four or more of the following questions, it’s likely that there is reason to prompt further inquiry.
Note: These questions themselves shouldn’t be used as diagnostic criteria.
* Do they deny drinking when it is obvious he or she has been?
* Do they get angry if someone suggests there's a drinking problem?
* Do they drive while under the influence?
* Do they drink often by themselves?
* Are they drinking more now than in the past?
* Do they undergo a personality change when using alcohol/drugs?
* Do they lie to their employers, relatives or friends in an attempt to hide their alcohol/drug use?
* Are they neglecting responsibilities with children due to their substance abuse?
* Do they fail to remember circumstances associated with behavior displayed during periods of alcohol and/or drug use?
* Do they avoid social functions where alcohol is not served?
* Do they prefer socializing with other heavy drinkers and avoid socializing with those who don't drink?
* Are they hiding bottles of alcohol?
* Are they disruptive during the holidays or special occasions when getting high or drunk?
* Are they drinking early in the morning or early in the day?
* Have friends or relatives asked them to stop or cut down on their use of alcohol or other drugs?
* Is there absenteeism at work or school because of their alcohol and or drug use?
* Are they isolating from family and friends?
* Do they continually promise to stop using alcohol/drugs only to return to them?
* Is there a family history of alcoholism/drug addiction?
* Do they have periods of remorse after drinking or drugging and apologize for their behavior?
* Do they justify their use by blaming a stressful life style or difficult emotional situations?
* Does their use of alcohol and or drugs cause family members to fear/avoid them?
* Do they break promises because of drinking and or drug use?
* Do they have medical problems related to alcohol and or other drug abuse?
* Do they shake in the morning or when trying to abstain from drinking alcohol?
* Do they deny there’s a drinking problem because they only drink wine or beer?
* Do they have financial problems, which can be associated with their alcohol and or drug use?
* Do they have legal problems due to drugs and or alcohol?
* Is there a lack of interest in personal hygiene?
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