Debbie from New York asks, “How do I know I am an alcoholic?”
Addiction is a growing epidemic, touching the majority of the population of the world in some shape or form.
Close to half of the adults in America have a child, sibling, spouse or parent who has a problem with alcohol. If you look past the façade of an average person the check out girl at the grocery store, your next door neighbor, the dentist, our teachers, family and friends you would see the climbing numbers secretly hiding their pain and attempting to function in society.
“Only you can determine whether you have a drinking problem,” I finally replied.
If the majority of your stories start or end with, I was so drunk, or you and others notice a distinct personality change when you re under the influence, this is a sign you may have a problem.
This test can help determine whether an individual has issues with drinking.
1) Do you lose time from work due to drinking?
2) Is drinking making your home life unhappy?
3) Is drinking affecting your reputation?
4) Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?
5) Do you crave a drink at a definite time daily?
6) Do you want a drink the next morning?
7) Do you drink alone?
8) Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?
9) Is drinking jeopardizing your job or your business?
10)Have you ever been to a hospital or institution on account of drinking?
I told her if she answered, yes, to three or more of these questions, there was a good chance she was an alcoholic.
Honesty is extremely important otherwise, taking this test is just a waste of time.
When asked about recovery, the Unknown Drunk said, The first time I took that test, I answered no to every question. Now, in recovery, seeing the test in black and white, I realize how I could have died or killed someone because of my dishonesty.
One may ask themselves, But everyone drinks; why can t I?
An average person, may have trouble understanding their demons. Other than drunken and drug plagued celebrities in the media, there are few willing to come forward and openly talk about their problems give validation to your problems. And although self help books are useful, it is difficult to get the strength and courage truly needed to confront these difficult personal issues.
I went to A.A., the Unknown Drunk continued. I listened to people in recovery s stories and realized my life wasn t that different from theirs.
To all of the Debbies out there in the world... If alcohol has become a strong presence in your life, so much that you or others are questioning your behavior, your sanity, then get help. Perhaps you don t feel comfortable with Alcoholics Anonymous just tell someone. Remember, you don t have to be alone anymore.
Watch The VIDEO for the Article: The Unknown Drunk: The One with the Twenty Questions at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQIc1rapqdk
Author Resource:-
Susan DeAngelis is an author, teacher, and considered an expert in the field of addiction and other family issues. She is also the producer of addiction and family issue awareness videos featuring the character, The Unknown Drunk. http://www.thatslifeadvice.com
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