Expert: Druideck - 10/1/2008

Question
I think that my father is an alcoholic, but I am not sure. Can you tell me which are the symptoms of alcoholism?

Answer
Good day,

the symptoms of alcoholism are many.
One primary symptom is denial  that there
is any problem with their drinking.

Of course excessive drinking is involved
and making excuses to drink.

Alcoholics have trouble controlling their
drinking and can't stop when they plan
to. Often they may not drink for extended
periods of time yet they will lose control
quickly if they start drinking.

They get angry or annoyed at people
that suggest they may be drinking too much.

They sometimes hide alcohol and drink in secret
by themselves.

They may lose interest in social activities
and personal hygiene.

They may have anxiety and mental confusion.
They may be paranoid, angry and irritable.

They may be depressed, miss work
and develop heath problems such as liver
damage or stomach pains.

The inability to quit drinking when it has negative affects
on your work, your relationships, your health and
your family affairs is the sign of problem drinking.

Alcoholics make promises to quit but never
do without counselling, treatment and
usually attendance in AA meetings.
Alcoholism is a chronic and deadly illness
that can be addressed if the person
is willing to see the problem and accept the steps
necessary for recovery.

A search on the internet will often turn up
some example assessments for alcoholism.
These simple tests can give a reasonable
result if answered honestly.
http://www.counseling.caltech.edu/drug/selftest/test1.html
http://www.aa.org/bigbookonline/en_tableofcnt.cfm