Am I Drinking Too Much?

If you are asking yourself this question, chances are that you already know the answer. People have different limitation and expectations of themselves, but asking yourself this question might be an indication that talk therapy could help you.

Ask yourself the following questions to understand whether you might have an unbalanced relationship with a substance:

• Have you ever felt like you should cut down on your consumption?

• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to help ‘cure’ your hangover or get ‘ready’ for the day?

• Do you experience feelings of guilt associated with drinking?

• Do others criticize your drinking habits and behaviour while drinking?

• Do you continue to drink despite health, financial or family problems?

• Do you make drinking a priority over other family and adult responsibilities?

• Do you miss work or special occasions with your family and friends because of your drinking habits?

• Do you lower your level of companionship and consume alcohol in an inferior environment?

• Do you drink to escape from your realities or worries?

• Do you drink to build up self-confidence?

• Have you been in trouble because of your drinking such as missing days at work, driving under the influence or get involved in fights and arguments?

If you are answering yes to two or more of these questions, you could benefit from talk counseling to discuss some of the issues that contribute to your drinking. Working with a licensed therapist will allow you to explore what’s been going on in your life and find the best coping strategies for you.