For people with alcohol use disorder, stopping and managing alcohol use can be challenging. It may negatively impact your relationships — both personal and professional — and affect your mental and physical health.
Alcohol use disorder affects millions of adults and youth in the United States each year. According to the
Not everyone with alcohol use disorder experiences it in the same way. But there are some common symptoms and signs to look out for.
This may include:
- drinking more or longer than intended on some occasions
- trying to cut back more than once but not able to
- spending a lot of time getting over the aftereffects
- drinking or hangovers affected your responsibilities at home, work, school, and with family
- engaging in harmful behaviors more than once while drinking (such as driving, swimming, or having sex without a condom or other barrier method)
- drinking has impacted your personal relationships
- having a persistent urge to drink
- avoiding other activities due to your desire or urge to drink
- experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol wear off (this can include shakiness, nausea, sweating, difficulty sleeping, or a seizure)
- drinking more in one sitting to reach the same effect you experienced in the past
- drinking has affected your health or led to memory blackouts, depression, or anxiety
To receive a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder, you have to meet two of the above 11 symptoms, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR).
The condition can vary in intensity — mild, moderate, or severe — and depend on the number of symptoms met.
No matter whether a person has a mild or severe case of alcohol use disorder, the condition can seriously impact their daily life.
If you’re having trouble managing your alcohol intake despite it having negative consequences in your life, this may be a sign that you’re living with alcohol use disorder and may want to consider seeking help.
Asking for help can be extremely difficult. There may be major barriers to your recovery including the denial that there’s a problem, social stigma, having limited help, and lack of education.
Though it may seem overwhelming, help is available. With the right support and treatment, recovery is possible.
This free, medically-reviewed alcohol use test is meant for anyone who thinks they may benefit from an evaluation for alcohol use disorder.
The statements in this quiz can help you figure out whether you might need the support of a mental health professional for the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.
A therapist can also help you determine if your issues may be a symptom of a different mental health condition and recommend a treatment plan if necessary.
This online screening is not intended to be a diagnostic tool. It will not guarantee that you may be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.
Only a licensed mental health professional or trained medical doctor can give you a diagnosis and help you figure out the next best steps for you.
If you think a partner, friend, or family member may be living with alcohol use disorder, you can take this quiz on behalf of them as well.
Keep in mind that the results may not be as accurate because they’re based on your perception of them and not their direct personal experience.