Warning signs of an Alcohol or Drug Problem


If you are worried about a friend, or even yourself, in regards to drinking behavior and/or drug usage, remember CAGE:
  • Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking and/or drug use?
  • Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking and/or drug use?
  • Have you ever felt bad or Guilty about your drinking and/or drug use?
  • Have you Ever had a drink, or done drugs, first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover and/or withdrawal symptoms?
One "yes" answer suggests a possible substance abuse problem.   More than one "yes" answer means it is highly likely that a problem exists.

Warning signs of a substance dependence disorder include the following:
  • Developing a tolerance: needing increased amounts of the drug or alcohol to reach desired effects
  • Emotional changes: becoming more irritable, moody, fatigued
  • Sleep disturbances: either a decreased need for sleep or difficulty with insomnia
  • Changes in eating behaviors:
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities in favor of spending more time consuming alcohol and/or drugs
  • Missing classes and not turning assignments in
  • Neglecting personal hygiene
  • Hanging out with a new and different group of friends
  • Using any excuse to consume alcohol and/or drugs
  • Conversations centering on being high and/or drunk
  • Inability to stop using once started
  • Inability to cut back or quit using
  • Becoming secretive about their usage or using in secret
The above is just a partial list of substance dependence warning signs.   An individual can have any combination of the above warning signs as well as having additional warning signs that aren't on the list.   If you notice these warning signs in yourself or in another person, please know that help is available.   For further information regarding alcohol and drugs, screenings for alcohol/drug dependence disorders, or for help in dealing with alcohol and drug use problems, please contact the UL Lafayette Counseling & Testing Center at 337-482-6480 and set up an appointment to speak with a counselor.   The center offers an unlimited number of sessions free of charge to all students, faculty, and staff of the university.


Counseling & Testing Center
P.O. Box 44010
Lafayette, LA  70504
Oliver Hall, Room 212
Phone:  337/482-6480
Fax:      337/482-1267
E-mail:   slidde@louisiana.edu