NJ Drug Treatment Centers

Addiction Helpline and Resource Center for New Jersey Residents

Test to See If You’re an Alcoholic

Test to See If You're an AlcoholicIt is easy to determine whether or not someone has an alcohol problem: there are various types of behaviors and thought patterns that can indicate an addiction. Although specific drinking patterns may differ between individuals, there are questions that New Jersey residents can ask themselves to help determine if they’ve become addicted.

Questions about Alcohol Use

Answers to the following questions can help you explore your alcohol use and determine if you are struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction:

  • Do you actively seek out activities where you know alcohol will be served and avoid those where it won’t be? Planning activities around the availability of alcohol is a sign of alcohol’s importance to you.
  • When you face a stressful situation, is your first instinct to drink? New Jersey residents who drink to alleviate negative feelings are more likely to become addicted.
  • Do you have withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, insomnia, or irritability when you don’t drink regularly?
  • This is a sign of physical dependence, which is a significant part of alcoholism for most New Jersey residents.
  • Do you often drink in the morning? This may be another sign of physical dependence and of drinking to avoid withdrawal.
  • Are the drinks you most often consume the ones that are highest in alcohol content? This may be a sign that your preference is due to physical dependence rather than enjoyment.
  • Do you have to drink more than you did in the past to achieve previous effects? This indicates tolerance, and that your body has changed in response to alcohol. It is a step on the road to addiction for many New Jersey alcoholics.
  • Have others confronted you about your drinking behavior? Denial is a strong part of alcoholism. Often others will be aware of a problem before you are.
  • Has drinking caused you problems at work or school? When people become addicted, often times their priorities change. Alcohol use may interfere with other responsibilities.
  • Does alcohol use cause you to do things you later regret? If alcohol use causes you to get into legal trouble or otherwise behave in ways you wouldn’t when sober, it’s a sign that you’re continuing to drink despite negative consequences.
  • Do you have blackouts or times when you can’t remember what you were doing while you were drinking? New Jersey alcoholics may ignore this problem, but it can indicate alcoholism.
  • Have you told yourself that you’ll stop drinking or cut down the amount you drink, but have been unable to do so? If you’re unable to control the amount of alcohol you drink, it’s a clear sign that help is needed.

New Jersey Alcoholism Help

If you live in New Jersey and have developed an addiction to alcohol, we can help you regain control. Call our toll-free, 24 hour helpline and let us discuss treatment options with you. We can answer whatever questions you have, including checking your insurance coverage, if you wish. We’re available around the clock, so there’s no need to delay. Take the first step toward reclaiming your life today.

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