The National Institute of Health reports 3 out of every 10 adults drinks at a level that puts them at risk for alcoholism, liver disease and other health problems. Do you ever wonder if you or a family member uses alcohol at a concerning level?

What are the symptoms of an alcohol use disorder? *

Take this simple survey and see if you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself.

Had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer than you intended?

More than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to but couldn’t?

More than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt; such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex?

Had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect you want? Or found that your usual number of drinks had much less effect than before?

Continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed, or anxious or adding to another health problem? Or after having had a memory blackout?

Spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over other aftereffects?

Continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends?

Found that drinking or being sick from drinking often interfered with taking care of your home or family? Or caused job troubles? Or school problems?

Given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you or gave you pleasure in order to drink?

More than once gotten arrested, been held at a police station, or had other legal problems because of you drinking?

Found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, or a seizure? Or sensed things that were not there?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then alcohol may already be a cause for concern.

The mental health professionals at Frankfort Counseling Associates can assist you in exploring your signs and help you to create a plan to address your use of alcohol.

( * Rethinking Drinking. Alcohol and Your Health. 2010 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. )