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Am I An Alcoholic?

  • Writer: Design Recovery
    Design Recovery
  • Mar 13
  • 2 min read

For many, drinking alcohol is a normal part of socializing, celebrating, or unwinding. But when does casual drinking cross the line into alcoholism? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I an alcoholic?”, you’re not alone. Recognizing the signs of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the first step toward understanding your relationship with alcohol and seeking help if needed.


destructive drinking
Alcohol use disorder is a recognized mental health disorder by the DSM-V

Signs of Alcoholism

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is a chronic disease that affects the brain and behavior, leading to compulsive drinking. Common signs include:

  • Drinking More Than Intended: Frequently drinking more or longer than planned.

  • Inability to Cut Down: Wanting to stop but being unable to do so.

  • Craving Alcohol: A strong urge or compulsion to drink.

  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Drinking interferes with work, school, or family life.

  • Continued Use Despite Consequences: Drinking even when it harms health, relationships, or finances.

  • Increased Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to feel its effects.

  • Experiencing Withdrawal: Symptoms like shakiness, sweating, nausea, or anxiety when not drinking.

If these signs resonate with you, it may be time to take a closer look at your drinking habits.

Self-Assessment: Am I an Alcoholic?

The CAGE Questionnaire is a simple tool used to screen for alcohol use disorder:

  1. Cut Down: Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?

  2. Annoyed: Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?

  3. Guilty: Have you ever felt guilty about your drinking?

  4. Eye-Opener: Have you ever needed a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?

Answering “yes” to two or more questions suggests a possible alcohol problem and a need for further assessment.

Seeking Help and Recovery

The good news is that alcoholism is treatable, and recovery is possible. At Design Recovery, we offer personalized treatment options, including 12-Step Immersion, therapy, and holistic approaches to support long-term sobriety.

If you’re wondering whether alcohol has taken control of your life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Reach out today and take the first step toward a healthier, alcohol-free future.

 
 
 

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