Addiction can be viewed as using the same coping strategy for all your problems. So, if you feel anxious at a party, drink. If you feel lonely, drink. If you feel angry, drink. Can't get started in the morning, drink. You know you are an alcoholic when you cannot think of any other strategy to deal with your problems besides drinking. Unfortunately, our society and culture denies the expression of feelings and needs, so we are unable to find anyone who can listen to our problems with the empathy we so desperately want. To develop your skills in this area, check out my Mahalo page on listening skills.

I just saw some of your other questions on Mahalo. So check Wayland Myers' article out:
http://www.waylandmyers.com/3.html
I really am excited and inspired by the nonviolent communication (nvc) approach. Read the example dialog with Dr. Marshall Rosenberg with a substance abuser.

duenhsiyen

Generally speaking, if you're wondering if you're an alcoholic, chances are you know you already have issues with alcohol. A person who is not an alcoholic wouldn't likely be asking that question to themselves.

I was the assistant executive director and grant coordinator for the PBR-Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse for a couple of years, and in that time, we learned that almost every person who finally came in for help would admit to having had problems in the past and have known for some time that they were likely an alcoholic, but admitting it was harder than quitting drinking for many.

In AA, they talk about the steps, and the very first step is: Admit you have a problem.

Now, I'm going to give you a link to an AA website that has an alcoholic self-assessment. It will ask you questions about your alcohol use and if you answer them honestly, it will tell you how to score it and then lead you to additional help if you are ready to take that next step.

Do you have a problem with alcohol? A Self Assessment.

well i first relized i was one when i woke up and had the shakes and wanted a beer i have gotton alot better i only drink once a week but its probably cause i have no money and i live with my mother in law..but if i did have money i would drink evreyday

when you drink more then you should, when you drink just because or when you drink after every depressing moment,

If you do not drink in moderation then i would look into seeking some help.

I am one to only drink maybe twice per year so if you are drinking more then this then im sure your drinking just because... Usually drinking consists of holidays or special occasions so if you do it everyday then this is not good and you should definitley seek some help.

Thanks Mike !