What the difference between drinking too much and being an alcoholic?!
What the difference between drinking too much and being an alcoholic?
So I drink alot - everyday, not at work but I like a drink. It may be ruining my relationship though!
Answers:
Well drinking can be fun and safe if in moderation. Here are a few questions to ask yourself, answer honestly:
1. Do you lose time from work due to drinking?
2. Is drinking making your home life unhappy?
3. Do you drink because you are shy with other people?
4. Is drinking affecting your reputation?
5. Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?
6. Have you gotten into financial difficulties as a result of drinking?
7. Do you turn to lower companions and an inferior environment when drinking?
8. Does your drinking make you careless of your family's welfare?
9. Has your ambition decreased since drinking?
10. Do you crave a drink at a definite time of day?
11. Do you want a drink the next morning?
12. Does drinking cause you to have difficulty in sleeping?
13. Has your efficiency decreased since drinking?
14. Is drinking jeopardizing your job or business?
15. Do you drink to escape from worries or trouble?
16. Do you drink alone?
17. Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?
18. Has your physician ever treated you for drinking?
19. Do you drink to build up your self-confidence?
20. Have you ever been to a hospital or institution on account of drinking?
If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions you might have an alcohol abuse problem. My suggestion: tell your girlfriend or boyfriend that you recognize you have a drinking problem and ask for their help. If they truly love you they can help you moderate your drinking or help you stop alltogether. But you have to want help. If you are having a hard time cutting back your drinking on your own, talk to your family doctor or get in contact with your local AA and attend some of their meetings.
The first step is to admit you have a problem and by posing your question here I can tell you really want to change your lifestyle to save your relationship. So in a way you have taken the first step. Now make the active choice to cut back, or stop your excessive drinking... you'll be glad you did!
Best of luck, and stick to your chosen path!