Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is a condition that affects many individuals across the globe. While it often starts off subtly, recognizing the early signs of alcohol addiction can make all the difference in addressing the issue before it becomes severe. Alcohol addiction not only affects physical health but also damages relationships and work life. By spotting the warning signs early, individuals can take the necessary steps toward recovery. In under a minute, here’s how you can identify the red flags and check for alcohol addiction through a simple self-test.

5 Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction

1. Drinking to Cope with Stress or Emotions
One of the main indicators of alcohol addiction is using alcohol as a way to cope with stress, sadness, or anxiety. While social drinking is normal for many, turning to alcohol regularly to manage negative emotions is a dangerous habit. If you notice that you’re drinking more during stressful situations or when feeling down, this could be a sign that alcohol is being used as an emotional crutch.

2. Difficulty Controlling Alcohol Consumption
An individual struggling with alcohol addiction often has difficulty controlling how much they drink, even when they intend to cut back. If you’ve tried to drink less but find yourself drinking more than planned or repeatedly binge drinking, this is a red flag. A loss of control is a key sign of dependence, and it's often accompanied by feelings of regret or guilt afterward.

3. Prioritizing Alcohol Over Responsibilities
When alcohol consumption becomes a priority over other important aspects of life, it indicates a deeper problem. If you’re neglecting family, work, hobbies, or personal health in favor of drinking, it’s a clear sign that alcohol is taking over. Whether it’s missing work, neglecting your health, or letting relationships suffer, alcohol addiction can lead to serious consequences if not addressed.

4. Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms
If you notice physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, anxiety, or nausea when you haven’t had a drink in a while, this is a clear sign that your body is physically dependent on alcohol. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they often become more intense the longer someone is dependent on alcohol. If these symptoms occur when not drinking, it’s essential to seek professional help.

5. Hiding or Lying About Drinking Habits
If you or someone you know has been hiding their drinking habits or lying about how much alcohol they consume, it could be a sign of addiction. Individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder often feel ashamed of their behavior and may go to great lengths to keep it secret. This secrecy is usually a response to the guilt or embarrassment of knowing their drinking has become excessive.

Quick Self-Test: Are You at Risk?

If you’ve noticed any of the red flags above, it might be time to take a quick self-assessment. Answer the following 10 questions honestly. Keep track of your answers and check your score to see if you may be struggling with alcohol use.

1. How often do you drink alcohol to relieve stress or anxiety?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

2. Do you find it difficult to stop drinking once you’ve started?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

3. Do you prioritize drinking over other activities, like family time or work?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

4. Have you ever missed work or other important activities because of drinking?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

5. Do you drink more than you intend to when you start drinking?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

6. Do you experience physical symptoms like shaking, sweating, or anxiety when you don’t drink for a while?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

7. Do you often lie about or hide the amount of alcohol you drink from others?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

8. Have you ever felt guilty or regretful after drinking?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

9. Do you drink alcohol even when you know it negatively affects your health, relationships, or work?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

10. Do you sometimes think you may need to drink less or stop drinking altogether but feel unable to?

  • Never

  • Rarely

  • Sometimes

  • Often

Scoring Your Answers:

0–10 Points: Low Risk
You seem to have a healthy relationship with alcohol and don’t show significant signs of addiction. However, continue to monitor your drinking habits to ensure they remain in moderation.

11–20 Points: Moderate Risk
You might be experiencing early signs of alcohol misuse. It’s important to reflect on how alcohol affects your life. Consider talking to a healthcare professional or reaching out to a support group for further guidance.

21–30 Points: High Risk
You are likely experiencing alcohol dependence. These signs suggest that you might be struggling with addiction. It’s strongly recommended that you seek professional help, as alcohol use disorder can affect every aspect of your life, including your health, relationships, and work.

What to Do Next

If your score is 20 or higher, or if you’ve answered "Often" to several questions, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional. Alcohol addiction is treatable, and taking action early can help prevent serious health complications. Reach out to your doctor, a therapist, or a local addiction helpline to get the support you need.

Remember, asking for help is a courageous and important step toward recovery, and you don’t have to face this challenge alone.