Is alcohol dependence the same as alcoholism and how do you know if you have a problem?

Question

I drink most evenings to wind down and decompress. I do not think I am an alcoholic because I function fine at work and I never drink in the morning. But sometimes I notice I feel anxious on days I don't drink. How do you know if your drinking has become a problem?

jakethereal · Accepted Answer

The anxiety you feel on days you don't drink is a sign of physical dependence, which is a medical issue separate from behavioral alcoholism. That specific symptom warrants a conversation with a doctor because withdrawal from alcohol can be medically serious.

ella_clark · Answer

A useful test: can you comfortably choose not to drink for two weeks? Not as a punishment but as an experiment. Difficulty or significant discomfort doing so is meaningful information about your relationship with alcohol.

Is alcohol dependence the same as alcoholism and how do you know if you have a problem?

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Is alcohol dependence the same as alcoholism and how do you know if you have a problem?

2 answers Most votes Newest Oldest

Write an Answer

2 answers
Most votes Newest Oldest