Alcoholism Screening Tests And The Cage Test

By Author: JILL COHEN
Total Articles: 79
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The use of alcohol is acceptable in most societies. Even as children we see advertisements that make alcohol look fun and sexy, so we accept it as a part of life, and when we are old enough we are left to self-administer this drug, how, when and where we like. Most people enjoy an occasional drink, a few drinks at a party, after work, or a glass of wine with a meal and have no problems. Others, for many complex reasons, find that they start to drink heavily, or more frequently. Still other worry if they could perhaps be starting down a slope into addiction.

Alcoholism screening tests have been devised for those of us who are not sure if we are alcohol-dependent or not. The CAGE questionnaire is a simple, four question test that we can use to gauge if our alcohol use is not simply use, but abuse, and of course being honest is the key to finding the right answer.

The first question in the CAGE test asks if you feel that you should reduce your alcohol intake. This will involve a certain amount of introspection, you will have to think about situations you may have gotten into after consuming too much alcohol, such ...
... as being drunk and waking up on the floor, for example.

If someone who is close to you has said something about your drinking and you have reacted either defensively or angrily, the second question addresses that scenario. If you did react in a way that is out of character for you, then you may be in denial. It can be hard too face the fact that you may be drinking too heavily, or at inappropriate times.

Do you feel guilty? Have you been late home from work and lied that you were working late, when in fact you were in a bar? Did you have several beers, but lied and said you only had a couple of drinks? You lied as a defense – you have an addiction, and you are not willing to admit to it. Again you are in denial and that guilt comes along with denial.

The last question asks if you wake up in the morning wanting a drink, to either steady your nerves or help to get rid of a hangover – the hair of the dog as it’s called. The CAGE test is a very short, sharp, shock if you answer yes to all the questions – you need to seek help. There are many other, and much longer alcoholism screening tests, but there is one online developed by Johns Hopkins University Hospital, that contains only three questions. Answering yes to all three questions is a sure sign that you are becoming, or have become, alcohol-dependent.

Taking any of these tests voluntarily and honestly is a good sign that you are worried about your own physical health and well-being. Congratulations. The major part of the battle with alcohol is realizing that you have a problem – chances are with the right help, a change of habits and a positive attitude, you can be on the road to recovery quickly.

Learn more about Alcoholic Intervention and Binge Drinking Problems.