Drinking to Get Drunk
Alcohol is no longer used in moderation. The drinker decides that every drinking
experience must result in becoming intoxicated.
Loss of Control
The individual loses his/her ability to control how much or how often they consume.
The drinker may attempt to limit consumption in regards to amount and/or frequency
but find that they end up drinking to excess.
Increased Consumption with Increased Tolerance for Alcohol
The necessity of drinking increasing amounts to achieve the same effects is
known as tolerance. Tolerance is a sign that the liver is being constantly exposed
to alcohol and is working overtime to cope.
Blackouts/ Memory Loss
Inability to remember portions or all of what happened during an episode of
drinking. Memory loss is a sign that the individual has consumed dangerous levels
of alcohol.
Passing Out
Losing consciousness due to heavy consumption of alcohol. Passing out is a sign
that the individual has consumed near-lethal levels of alcohol and is in danger
of suffering severe physical damage.
Drinking Becomes Primary Activity
Drinking alcohol becomes the focus of all social activities. Other daily activities
also begin to revolve around alcohol. Drinker is preoccupied with when and how
they will get their next drink.
Failing to Fulfill Responsibilities
Scholastic achievement begins to suffer. Individual begins missing class and/or
work due to his/her drinking behaviors. Drinker may also fail to follow through
on general promises, obligations, and responsibilities.
Increasing Problems Due to Drinking
Problems arise with family, friends, academics, employment, finances, health,
and/or the law due to drinking and/or related behaviors.
Drinking Alone
Drinking is no longer part of a social process or interaction. Individual may
be drinking to cope with or escape from problems.
Personality Changes
The individual experiences extreme mood swings (positive or negative) when drinking.
For example, a typically shy person may become very boisterous/outgoing or someone
may become aggressive/violent when intoxicated.
Secretive Drinking
The individual may lie to others about the amount or frequency of his/her drinking.
Drinker may hide bottles or slip alcohol into other beverages.
Inability to Quit or Cut Back
The individual is unable to abstain from alcohol for an extended period of time.
He/she may attempt to control his/her drinking after being confronted, but soon
slips back into old patterns of behavior.