Alcoholism: Do I Have a Problem?

The question, "Do I have an alcohol problem?" is ambiguous and a bit bewildering. A more specific question and one more easily answered is, "Does my drinking cause problems?"

Some questions to ask yourself about your drinking are:

• Do I spend a large percentage of my social life drinking?
• Have I, at times, drunk more than I intended?
• Do I spend more money on alcohol than I intend?
• Have I drank when I told myself I would not?
• Have I had more than one blackout?
• While drinking, have I done things I later regretted?
• Do I generally get drunk when I drink?
• Do I sometimes feel guilty about my drinking?
• Is there a history of alcohol problems in my family?
• Do I feel alone or different than others at a party if I am not drinking?
• Do I have a reputation as a drinker?
• Do I sometimes become promiscuous when drinking?
• Have I broken promises to myself or others about my drinking?
• Have friends told me they don't like to be with me when I drink?
• Have friends told me I become a different person when I drink?
• Do I tell myself that I drink to be social yet sometimes drink alone?
• Have I told myself I will reduce my drinking after graduation?
• Have I embarrassed myself while drinking?
• Have I neglected homework or studies because of drinking?
• Have I tried to avoid people I drank with the night before?

If your answer to the first question and to even one of the other questions listed is "yes", talking with somebody about your drinking is recommended for you, as you show signs of alcoholism.

How To Change

When considering changes in drinking, most people think only in terms of reducing or quitting, but drinking can be altered in a variety of ways. The amount, frequency, and location of drinking can all be changed; abstinence from drinking can be temporary or life-long. This section will discuss ways to stop or reduce drinking. Remember to be patient with yourself in the beginning. Changing your habits takes some time so don't feel discouraged if you have difficulty at first. Checking-in with someone once a week to discuss your progress and difficulties is helpful.

Suggestions for reducing drinking:

• Talk with someone, preferably an alcohol counselor, about your concerns and plans.
• Tell selected friends what you are trying to do.
• When you are ready, tell your family about your problem.
• Set a specific number of drinks you will consume at a party or during an evening, and hold to it by counting your drinks.
• Don't drink prior to or the night before an obligation.
• Keep studies your first priority. Decide to not drink until you have completed your studies.
• Limit your alcohol intake to no more than a half-ounce per hour; equivalent to one 12 oz. beer, one shot of 100 Proof liquor, or a 5 oz. glass of wine. The liver detoxifies approximately this amount each hour.
• Drink no more than three drinks per day and never daily.
• Abstain from alcohol during a pre-party.
• Be sure to eat prior to and while drinking.
• Drink slowly, sipping, not gulping.
• Avoid punch and other mixtures which contain unknown amounts of alcohol.
• Develop new interests and activities.
• Exercise regularly.
• Identify the situations in which you would typically drink, and make other plans.
• Drink beverages which contain a lower percentage of alcohol.
• Carry a bottle of water, juice, or soda with you when you go to parties or a bar.
• Remember, you do not have to drink at all if you don't want to. Do not let others make the decision for you.

Denison Students

Denison students reported they drink once a month or less. Some choose not to drink for health reasons, some for religious or personal reasons, some because of alcohol problems at home, and some because they are in recovery. There are a few hundred students here who do not drink. Some still go to parties and bars, others find it better to stay away from those environments.
A number of students at Denison, as well as faculty and staff members, attend AA or NA (Narcotics Anonymous) meetings. One meeting a week is held on campus with numerous others available in the area.

If you've tried to limit your drinking and been unsuccessful, here are some further suggestions:

• Accept that staying stopped might not be easy.
• Be patient with yourself.
• Take it one day (or one party) at a time.
• Find out which friends will support you in your efforts to stop.
• Ask those friends if you can call when you are having a tough time.
• Ask those friends to help you develop social alternatives.
• Identify those situations in which you are most likely to want to drink and avoid them completely.
• When and if you are ready, tell your family and ask for their support.
• Read about alcohol and alcoholism.
• Talk with others who have stopped drinking.
• Attend an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. You do not have to be an alcoholic to attend open meetings.
• Talk with an alcohol counseling professional.
• Meet with a health professional if you have medical concerns or questions.
• Treatment programs are available if you find that stopping is more difficult than expected.
• Think positively. A number of students have gotten sober and stayed that way during their time at Denison.

You may find that stopping is not the problem; staying that way is. For some, the elimination of alcohol from their lives means a major lifestyle change. Learning to socialize without a beer in hand can be quite difficult especially in college. Being comfortable with who you are and feeling accepted by your friends when you are no longer drinking often proves to be a major stumbling block for some trying to quit. True friends are will quickly become apparent and will be completely supportive and encouraging.

More Information

• Office of Alcohol & Drug Education, 105 Doane, x6385
• Health Center at x6200
• Self-assessment