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Plain answers about drugs, alcohol, withdrawal and treatment, from an independent educational resource.

Man seated at a wooden table by a window with a glass of water and an open notebook, reflecting on sobriety.

How Do You Know If Drinking Has Become a Problem, and What Helps?

In brief: Drinking may be a problem if you binge, drink heavily, or have 2 or more of 11 warning signs doctors use for alcohol use disorder. Stopping suddenly after heavy drinking can cause dangerous withdrawal, including seizures. Most people can benefit from treatment, which includes counseling, 3 FDA-approved medicines, and support groups.

Alcohol ·

Latest articles

Relaxed man smiling outdoors after drug detox and rehab, embracing a healthy lifestyle and recovery from substance abuse, happy and hopeful in a natural setting.

The Long History of Drugs: Rituals to Medicine

Explore a brief history of drugs, from ancient medicinal use to modern policy shifts. Understand the health, societal, and cultural impacts of various substances.

Resources ·

For families and friends

Worried about someone else's drinking or drug use? These guides cover what helps, what tends to backfire, and how to keep children steady while a parent is in treatment.

Need help now?

These are free public services. You do not need insurance to call.

  • 988

    Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text, any time.

  • 1-800-662-4357

    SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP). Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information.

  • 911

    Emergency. Call for an overdose, seizure, or if someone is unresponsive.

Drug Detox and Rehab is an independent educational resource. We summarize information from NIDA, SAMHSA, the CDC and peer-reviewed research. We are not doctors and we do not provide medical care.