How to Know if Your Drinking Might Be a Problem
Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I drinking too much?” or “Do I have a problem with alcohol?” You're not alone. Millions of people quietly ask themselves the same question every year. The truth is, if you’re wondering whether alcohol is affecting your life, that’s already an important first step.
This page is here to help. You’ll find clear signs to watch for, a self-assessment based on the DSM-5 criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), and practical next steps if you think your drinking—or someone else's—might be a problem.
Not everyone who drinks heavily has an alcohol use disorder. But when drinking begins to negatively impact your health, relationships, responsibilities, or mental well-being, it may be time to take a closer look.
AUD is a clinical diagnosis that ranges from mild to severe, depending on how many symptoms are present. It’s not about the number of drinks—it’s about how drinking affects your life.
Early Signs
Here are some early warning signs that drinking may be becoming a problem:
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You drink more or longer than you intended.
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You’ve tried to cut down or stop, but couldn’t.
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You spend a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking.
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You crave alcohol when you’re not drinking.
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Drinking interferes with your responsibilities at home, work, or school.
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You continue to drink even though it’s causing problems in your relationships.
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You’ve given up activities you once enjoyed because of alcohol.
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You’ve gotten into risky situations while or after drinking.
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You need to drink more to get the same effect (tolerance).
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You experience withdrawal symptoms when the alcohol wears off.
If some of these sound familiar, taking the self-assessment below may help clarify things.
Alcoholic Self-Test
Answer each question based on your drinking habits over the past 12 months.
- Have you often ended up drinking more, or for a longer time, than you planned?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Have you tried to cut down or stop drinking more than once, but couldn’t?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you spend a lot of time drinking, or being sick or hungover afterward?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you often have strong urges or cravings to drink?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Has your drinking interfered with your responsibilities at work, school, or home?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you keep drinking even when it causes trouble with family or friends?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Have you given up or reduced activities that used to matter to you — like hobbies, work, or time with loved ones — because of alcohol?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Have you gotten into dangerous situations while drinking or after drinking (e.g., driving, swimming, using machinery, or unsafe sex)?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you keep drinking even though it’s making you feel depressed, anxious, or worsening a health problem?[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Have you found that you need to drink more than you used to in order to feel the same effect?
[ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you get withdrawal symptoms when the alcohol wears off (such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, racing heart), or do you drink to avoid these symptoms?
[ ] Yes [ ] No
Interpreting The Results
Count how many questions you answered “Yes” to:
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0–1 “Yes” answers: Likely Not a Problem
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2–3 “Yes” answers: Mild Problem
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4–5 “Yes” answers: Moderate Problem
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6 or more “Yes” answers: Severe Problem
This is not a diagnosis, it’s a reliable way to assess whether you may benefit from speaking to a professional. Even mild AUD can lead to serious consequences if left unaddressed.
Options
If your score concerns you—or even if you’re just unsure—there are important steps you can take:
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Talk to your doctor or a licensed counselor.
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Reach out to a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery.
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Learn about treatment options, including therapy, outpatient programs, or inpatient care.
Recovery is possible, and many people who once struggled with alcohol now live fulfilling, sober lives. The most important step is the one you take next.
Concerned About a Loved One’s Drinking?
If you’re worried about someone else’s drinking, here are a few signs to look for:
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They often drink alone or in secret.
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They become defensive or angry when confronted.
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They neglect responsibilities or relationships.
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They’ve had legal, financial, or health issues related to alcohol.
Start with a gentle, nonjudgmental conversation. Express concern, not criticism. Offer your support, and share resources if they’re open to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be an alcoholic even if I don’t drink every day?
Yes. Alcohol Use Disorder is about how alcohol impacts your life—not how often you drink.
What’s the difference between heavy drinking and alcoholism?
Heavy drinking is a pattern of high alcohol intake, while alcoholism (AUD) includes behavioral symptoms like loss of control, cravings, and continued use despite consequences.
Isn’t it just stress or a phase?
Sometimes stress can lead to increased drinking, but if alcohol becomes a coping mechanism, it’s worth evaluating your habits seriously.
Resources and Help
If you’re ready to get help—or just want to explore your options—start here:
Final Thoughts
Recognizing that you might have a drinking problem doesn’t mean something is wrong with you—it means you’re ready for change. Whether you’re just beginning to ask the hard questions or already seeking help, know this: you’re not alone, and there are people and resources ready to support you.
