Alcohol Addiction can have many symptoms and signs, here a just a few that may signal a problem...

• You get drunk regularly
• You are always thinking about getting drunk.
• You need to drink to have a good time or to cope with problems.
• You keep saying you're going to stop or cut-back but you don't.
• Your drinking is affecting your school work or your job.
• It takes more and more drinks to get you drunk.
• You lie or steal to have money for alcohol.

Concerned about a friend who may have a drinking problem?   Want to help?

  Learn more by visiting our
"How to Help a Friend" page.

For more information about Underage Drinking, Prevention, and Treatment,
visit our Alcohol Resources Page, or contact your Regional Action Council today!

How to Cope with
an Alcohol Problem...

Alcoholism is a disease that can affect anyone - even young people.  Teens with alcohol problems usually think they have everything under control, but the truth is, an alcohol addiction slowly takes control over a person and his/her life.

The first step in overcoming an alcohol addiction is recognizing that a problem a exists.  To help you decide whether or not you might have an alcohol problem, ask yourself the following questions:

If you answered yes to any of these questions, maybe it's time you took a look at what your drinking might be doing to you, and take steps toward stopping (see top right).

-Back to Top-

I have a drinking problem and I need help....

If you think you have a problem with alcohol take the following steps...

Admit it to yourself:  Nobody wants to accept that they have an alcohol addiction - it takes strength to admit it.  But finding that strength is the first step in overcoming it. 

Talk to Someone: Find someone you feel safe with - a friend, parent, or teacher and tell them you have a problem.  Ask them to help you find professional help if you need it and then take things one step at a time.

Get Professional Help and Support:  Overcoming an addiction is not easy and many people need lots of support and even professional help like treatment programs and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to help them get through the earliest part of recovery and stay clean and sober.  Many treatment and support programs are completely confidential or anonymous and are available in your community. 

Finally:
Visit our Alcohol Resources Page, or contact your Regional Action Council today!