Alcoholism Warning Signs

Medically Reviewed By Kayla Loibl | Last Edited : MARCH  23, 
2021 | 1 Sources

An alcoholic experiences an uncontrollable, constant craving to drink, increasing alcohol tolerance and physical dependence on the drug. The following signs may help determine whether you or a loved one has indications of a serious problem with alcohol abuse or dependence.

According to the American Council on Alcoholism, these indicators may surface in the later stages of alcoholism and involve a combination of symptoms during different periods of time.

Signs and Symptoms

• Consuming increasing quantities of alcohol, becoming intoxicated often, and spending a considerable amount of time overcoming hangovers.
• Being preoccupied with drinking to the exclusion of other interests, activities and/or involvement with friends and loved ones.
• Making and breaking promises to others to stop or moderate drinking habits.
• Experiencing black outs, which are periods of time when there is no recall about what happened while drinking.
• Having mood swings, episodes of irritability and other changes in personality.
• Hiding or denying drinking, making excuses for drinking and/or refusing to admit to excessive drinking.
• Drinking alone, in the morning or before a party.
• Experiencing problems with school, work, family, marriage, and other relationships.
• Losing interest in personal appearance or hygiene.
• Suffering from declining (and potentially fatal) physical health.
• Having several arrests for drunken driving or other alcohol-related incidents.

If you suspect a problem with drinking, seek immediate counsel from a qualified healthcare professional who can make a proper diagnosis and offer treatment options. 

For information on alcoholism treatment approaches, take a look at our treatment and types of therapy sections.

More alcoholism warning signs on our main alcoholism signs and symptoms page

Alcoholism home page

Source: American Council on Alcoholism

Cure For Alcoholism

Alcoholism Self-Help Resources