The following questions are based on the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fourth edition) for alcohol dependence. These questions are not intended to serve as a diagnosis or recommendation for or against treatment. They serve only as a screening tool for your own use to assess your drinking habits.

1. Do you find that the same amount of alcohol no longer gives you the “buzz” that it once did, or that you need to drink more in order to get the same effect?
   
   
2. After not drinking alcohol for a matter of hours or days, do you develop (or drink more to avoid) any of the following symptoms?
   • Nausea or vomiting
   • Shaking or trembling
   • Increased sweating, heart rate or pulse
   • Seeing or hearing things that others cannot perceive
   • Nervousness
   • Restlessness
   • Seizures
   
   
3. Do you find yourself drinking more alcohol or drinking for longer periods of time than you mean to?
   
   
4. Have you wanted or tried to drink less but were unable to?
   
   
5. Do you find yourself spending much of your time getting alcohol, drinking it or recovering from its effects?
   
   
6. Have you chosen to spend time drinking instead of pursuing other interests or obligations?
   
   
7. Do you continue to drink despite having gotten into trouble as a result of it?

People who answer “yes” to three or more questions are encouraged to seek guidance from a physician, psychologist, counselor or religious adviser (e.g., a minister or rabbi). An alcohol problem does not just affect the drinker. Concerned family members, friends and co-workers can avail themselves of the excellent services provided by a local branch of Al-Anon.