How to recognize problematic use

• The user has a strong desire to drink and finds different occasions for this (to get calm, to fall asleep, to celebrate something, to “fix'' his mood).

• Loss of control over the time of drinking and the amount.

• Symptoms of abstinence when the drinking is stopped (trembling, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, delirium)

• Increased tolerance.

• Leaving behind all other amusing activities and interests (the user spends more time drinking or recovering after that).

• The person continues to drink despite the damages on their psychological wellbeing and physical health.

• Restriction of personal repertoire and ways of drinking (the user creates hard “habits” for this – when and how to drink).

• Failed attempts to stop drinking.

• Worsened family relationships and arguments about the drinking.

• The user drives after drinking and endangers him/herself and others.

• Problems at work and frequent absences.

• Problems with the law regarding the alcohol use.

• The user denies having a problem despite all objective facts that prove it.