Do I Have an Alcohol Use Disorder?

If you’re wondering whether you may have an alcohol use disorder (AUD), there are several signs and symptoms you can look for to help assess your relationship with alcohol. AUD is a medical condition that ranges from mild to severe, depending on how alcohol affects different aspects of life. Here are some common indicators that may suggest AUD:

1. Loss of Control Over Drinking
– Drinking More or Longer Than Intended: If you often drink more alcohol than you planned or continue drinking for longer than you intended, this may be a sign of AUD.
– Unsuccessful Attempts to Cut Down: If you’ve tried to cut down or quit drinking but haven’t been able to, this may indicate a loss of control over alcohol use.

2. Increased Tolerance and Physical Dependence
– Need for More Alcohol to Feel Effects: Over time, you may need more alcohol to achieve the same effects, indicating increased tolerance.
– Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical symptoms like sweating, shakiness, anxiety, nausea, or irritability when you’re not drinking can signal alcohol dependence.

3. Cravings and Preoccupation
– Strong Urges to Drink: If you frequently experience intense cravings or urges to drink, this may indicate AUD.
– Thinking About Alcohol Often: Spending a lot of time planning when and how you’ll drink or feeling preoccupied with alcohol can be a sign of dependency.

4. Neglecting Responsibilities and Activities
– **Ignoring Obligations**: Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home because of drinking is a common sign.
– **Loss of Interest in Hobbies**: If alcohol has taken the place of activities you used to enjoy, this may indicate a problematic relationship with drinking.

5. Social and Relationship Problems
– **Strained Relationships**: Drinking can often lead to conflicts or hurt relationships with family, friends, or coworkers.
– **Isolation**: If you tend to isolate yourself to drink or avoid social situations where drinking is not possible, this may be a warning sign.

6. Drinking Despite Negative Consequences
– Continued Use Despite Harm: If you continue drinking even though it’s causing physical, mental, or social harm, it may indicate AUD.
– Health Issues: Ignoring health problems related to alcohol, like liver issues, high blood pressure, or anxiety, can suggest an alcohol use disorder.

Self-Assessment Tools

– CAGE Questionnaire: This quick self-assessment includes four questions to help identify potential drinking problems:
1. Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?
2. Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt Guilty about your drinking?
4. Have you ever had an “Eye-opener” drink in the morning?

Answering “yes” to two or more questions can indicate a potential alcohol problem.

Next Steps
If these signs resonate with you, or if you feel concerned about your drinking, consider talking to a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough assessment and recommend treatment options. Many people find support in counseling, therapy, or support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery.

Acknowledging concerns about alcohol use is a powerful first step, and with the right support, it is entirely possible to regain control and improve your health and well-being.