How to Recognize and Respond to the Two Symptoms of Alcoholism

Bill W. and Dr. Bob, the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, focused on helping individuals with alcohol addiction through 12-step programs. They believed that the first step was admitting powerlessness over alcohol. Here are 10 short questions that might help someone understand the two most common symptoms of alcoholism - physical craving and mental obsession - and bring them closer to that crucial first step: 1. Do you often find yourself drinking more or longer than you had initially planned? 2. Have you ever tried to cut down or control your drinking but found it challenging or impossible? 3. Do you continue drinking even when it is causing problems with your relationships, work, or personal life? 4. Are you experiencing strong cravings or urges to consume alcohol, making it hard to focus on anything else? 5. Do you often drink alone or in secrecy out of guilt or shame? 6. Have you noticed a growing tolerance for alcohol, requiring you to drink more to achieve the desired effect? 7. Are you experiencing any withdrawal symptoms (such as trembling, sweating, or trouble sleeping) after periods of not drinking? 8. Are your thoughts consumed by drinking, making plans around it, or thinking about the next time you'll be able to drink? 9. Have you ever experienced "blackouts" where you cannot remember your actions while intoxicated? 10. Have you neglected, or lost interest in, activities and hobbies that you once enjoyed in order to drink? By answering these questions honestly, an individual may recognize the presence of physical cravings and mental obsessions associated with alcoholism, moving closer to taking that important first step in recovery.