In The Know Zone

Alcohol Problem Self-Assessment

How can someone tell if they have an alcohol problem?

If you are a teenager who drinks alcohol, you do have an alcohol problem. Every damaging effect of alcohol is worse in teenagers than it is in adults. Alcohol is not good for anyone, but it's terrible for teens.

An Interactive Self-Assessment of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

The following assessment was adapted from a test offered by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.

This assessment is not meant to diagnose a problem with alcohol or other drugs, but only to identify a possible problem. Only a physician or professional clinician should diagnose.

Answer these short "Yes or No" questions to see if you might need help.

​
Do you use alcohol or other drugs to build self-confidence?
Do you ever drink or get high immediately after you have a problem at home, school, or work?
Have you ever missed work or school due to alcohol or other drugs?
Does it bother you if someone says that you use too much alcohol or other drugs?
Have you started hanging out with a heavy drinking or drug using crowd?
Are alcohol and other drugs affecting your reputation?
Do you feel guilty or bummed out after using alcohol or other drugs?
Do you feel more at ease on a date or social event when drinking or using other drugs?
Have you gotten into trouble at home, work, or school for using alcohol or other drugs?
Do you borrow money or "do without" other things to buy alcohol and other drugs?
Do you feel a sense of power when you use alcohol or other drugs?
Have you lost friends since you started using alcohol or other drugs?
Do your friends use less alcohol or other drugs than you do?
Do you drink or use other drugs until your supply is all gone?
Do you ever wake up and wonder what happened the night before?
Have you ever been arrested or hospitalized due to alcohol or use of illicit drugs?
Do you "turn off" or avoid studies or lectures about alcohol or illicit drug use?
Have you ever tried to quit or to cut back using alcohol or other drugs?
Has there ever been someone in your family with a drinking or other drug problem?
Could you have a problem with alcohol or other drugs?
In The Know: Substance Abuse Pamphlet/ DVD Package
In the Know: Alcohol, Straight Facts, Serious Dangers Pamphlet
In The Know: Substance Abuse DVD Package