Recognizing & Confronting Alcohol Abuse
Introduction
There are approximately 17 million alcohol abusers in the United States (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism 
).
Definition of Alcohol Abuse
When a person's use of alcohol interferes with his or her physical, social, or economic functioning.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
- Loss of time from school or work due to drinking.
- Depression or unhappiness due to drinking.
- Drinking in order to cope with personal problems.
- Drinking to overcome shyness.
- Loss of interest in family and friends.
- Loss of interest in activities which were once of interest.
- Difficulty sleeping due to drinking.
- Poor judgment.
- Drinking outside of a social setting.
- Showing up intoxicated in inappropriate settings.
- Drinking to build self-confidence.
- Mood fluctuations.
- Developing health problems due to drinking.
- Experiencing memory blackouts during or after drinking.
- Usually drinking to the point of intoxication.
- Feeling guilty about drinking.
- Not fulfilling promises or obligations because of drinking.
How to Confront an Alcohol Abuser
- Talk in a non-judgmental way about your feelings concerning the person's drinking.
- If an alcohol abuser denies that he/she has a drinking problem, let the person know what will happen if he/she does not stop drinking.
- If the alcohol abuser agrees to seek help, then get help immediately.
Common Traits Exhibited by an Alcohol Abuser When Confronted
- Denial.
- Rationalizing his/her alcohol use.
- Making excuses when promises and obligations are not fulfilled.
- Blaming others for problems.
- Manipulation.
- Dependency.
Help! Where to find it.
Counseling Services
120 Richmond Quad, Ellicott Complex
716-645-2720
Alcoholics Anonymous (853-0388)
Copyright - Counseling Services, State University of New York at Buffalo
