Are there signs of a problem?

 

If you are not sure there is a problem, answer the following questions to help you find out. This brief test for alcohol/drug abuse is an American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) version of the CAGE assessment tool.

 

C 1. Have you ever felt you should CUT DOWN on your drinking or drug use?

 

A 2. Have people ANNOYED you by criticizing or complaining about your drinking or drug use?

 

G 3. Have you ever felt bad or GUILTY about your drinking or drug use?

 

E 4. Have you ever had a drink or drug in the morning (EYE OPENER) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?

 

5. Do you use any drugs other than those prescribed by a physician?

 

6. Has a physician ever told you to cut down or quit use of alcohol or drugs?

 

7. Has your drinking or drug use caused family, job or legal problems?

 

8. When drinking or using drugs have you ever had a memory loss (blackout)?

 

0-1 “Yes” answers indicates a possible alcohol problem

2 or more “Yes” answers indicates that a problem is likely to exist.

 

If you answered “No” to all the above questions, but you are having drinking or drug related problems with others in your life, you may want to seek a professional assessment.