Alcohol Abuse Warning Signs

• odor on the breath
• intoxication
• difficulty focusing: glazed appearance of the eyes
• uncharacteristically passive behavior; or combative and argumentative behavior
• gradual (or sudden in adolescents) deterioration in personal appearance and hygiene
• gradual development of dysfunction, especially in job performance or school work
• absenteeism (particularly on Monday)
• unexplained bruises and accidents
• irritability
• flushed skin
• loss of memory (blackouts)
• availability and consumption of alcohol becomes the focus of social or professional activities
• changes in peer-group associations and friendships
• impaired interpersonal relationships (troubled marriage, unexplainable termination of deep relationships, alienation from close family members)