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How Can I Prevent Alcohol Abuse?

Returning to drink is a major problem for recovering alcoholics; preventing this may be difficult, but it can be supported by continued therapy, positive motivation and strong social support. Other ways to prevent relapse include changing routines, accepting a new sense of values, and avoiding activities or people associated with the drinking habit. For example, 90% of alcoholics smoke. Alcoholics who stop smoking as well as drinking are more likely to achieve long-term abstinence — to say nothing of the other health benefits.

A Self-Screening Test

No single symptom defines alcoholism, but honest answers to the following questions will help you decide if you are at risk.

• Has a friend or relative ever suggested that you drink too much?
• Is it hard to stop drinking after you have had one or two drinks?
• Have you ever been unable to remember what you did during a drinking episode?
• Do you ever feel bad about how much you drink?
• Do you get into arguments or physical fights when you've been drinking?
• Have you ever been arrested or hospitalized because of drinking?
• Have you ever thought about getting help to control or stop your drinking?

If you answered yes to one or more questions, you may have a serious alcohol problem. For your own good, it's time to discuss the situation openly with a physician or mental health professional.