Problems with Alcohol

Early Signs of an Alcohol Problem for College Students

The following questions are designed to address drinking that is specific to college students. It is not that these don't happen to people that are not in college. These are behaviors that we see regularly in college students who have problems with alcohol. If you have experienced any of these in the past 60 days then you may be at risk for problems with alcohol.

  1. Had a hangover
  2. Performed poorly on a test
  3. Been in trouble with the police, residence hall, or other college authorities
  4. Damaged property, pulled fire alarm, etc.
  5. Got into a fight or argument
  6. Got nauseated or vomited
  7. Driven a car under the influence
  8. Missed a class
  9. Been criticized by someone I know
  10. Had memory loss
  11. Done something I later regretted
  12. Been arrested for DUI
  13. Have been taken advantage of sexually
  14. Have taken advantage of another sexually
  15. Tried unsuccessfully to stop using
  16. Seriously thought about suicide
  17. Seriously tried to commit suicide
  18. Been hurt or injured
  19. Hurt or injured someone else


The "test" above is not a foolproof diagnosis, but it is a rather good indicator. The likelihood that it is a serious problem increases with each succeeding "yes." It may mean that you are using alcohol to cope with stressful situations in your life. While this may not be a problem now, it could set up a pattern that will lead to a more serious problem for you as stresses in your life become greater.  If you feel you may have a problem contact Eastern Illinois University Counseling Center at 217-581-3413.

Other Links

http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/

http://alcoholism.about.com/

http://www.jointogether.org/sa/issues/hot_issues/binge/

http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/cas/