Do You Have a Substance Abuse Problem?

This quiz is designed to help you determine whether you have an alcohol or drug problem. Some questions were written by recovering addicts for Narcotics Anonymous. Others come from an Alcoholics Anonymous' teen survey.

1. Have you ever tried to cut down on your drinking or drug use -- and failed?
2. Have you ever felt annoyed when someone talked to you about your alcohol or drug use?
3. Have you ever felt guilty about your drinking or drug use?
4. Have you ever used alcohol or drugs in the morning or at bedtime to steady your nerves or to feel better?
5. Has your job or school performance suffered from the effects of drinking or drug use?
6. Have you ever lied about how much you drink or about your drug use?
7. Is your drinking or drug use making your life unhappy?
8. Have you ever gotten into trouble as a result of drinking or using drugs?

If you can answer "yes" to any one of these questions, you may have a substance abuse problem. Talk to a doctor immediately. Your family and friends might be able to support you and help you cope. Talk to them as well.

Related Articles What Is Alcoholism? Effects of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse Risk Factors for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse Role of Heredity in Alcoholism Role of Environment in Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Frequently Asked Questions About Drinking Problems

External Sources The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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