Am I an alcoholic?

Question

The coworker with whom I always have lunch with has started bringing in a thermos filled with fun, which we drink when we go to lunch.

We used to not have so much work to do, but now things have gotten really busy. Since we no longer have time to leave for lunch, we have taken a whole bunch of cups (with lids and straws) from McDonald's in order to be able to drink at our desks. I feel like I should stop this, but its so much fun!

I will not lose my job over this. I know because I work for the federal government.

I asked this question because, although I completely do not feel like an alcoholic (I never, ever get drunk and drink maybe once a month outside of work) it seems like this whole thing is something that an alcohol would do.

And I do not drive home from work!

Answer 1

Hopefully you work for the IRS.

Answer 2

I think you are excited by the "risk" factor. The idea of doing something like this while at work is exciting for you. A break from the norm. But you may have an addictive personality which is never a good thing especially when it comes to alcohol. Stop drinking at work and focus on your job. It's not worth losing over a little excitement at lunch.

Answer 3

It depends... Do you go to those meetings? If yes, you're an alcoholic. If no, you're just a drunk. ;o)

Seriously, I have read the Alcoholics Anonymous "Big Book", and according to it, YOU are the only person who can decide whether or not YOU are an alcoholic.

I think you may just be going through a phase that you will tire of in time. If you don't get tired of it; if you start drinking more often and/or larger quantities; if you put yourself and others at risk by driving while impaired -- well then, maybe you should take a look at the "Big Book" and decide for yourself.

Answer 4

of my understanding. I understand that if you drink and it becomes a hindrance to your life then if is a problem.

If you loose your job because of drinking then it is a problem.

For example, if your spouse does not appreciate you drinking then it is a problem.

If you get considerable sick due to alcohol, then it is a problem.

If it is not a problem in your life then you are not an alcoholic.

where does it not cause a problem. Even if you drink once a month, You will soon find your self drinking almost everyday.

As long as you are not drinking every day then you are not alcoholic.

but if you drink every other day, then it will take its toll on your life. You may find yourself looking older than you look if you drink too much.

If you can work and keep up in life then you may not incur all the problems of drinking.

but if you can ovoid drinking all together, then the better you will be.

Answer 5

We have decided that those who know nothing of alcohol addiction should shut it!

Alcoholism is not defined as needing or taking one drink everyday.
The only person I've seen on here with an even remotely sane answer is I plead the 5th.

If you want to know the definition of alcoholism please feel free to read the basic text of their society "Alcoholics Anonymous" - which for the novice is the name that the fellowship took from the book, not the other way around.

Good luck drink up, be careful out there, it gets ugly.

Answer 6

A medical perspective of alcoholism is anyone who drinks atleast one drink EVERY day. However, if your drinking at work, you certainly are developing a VERY BAD habit, that you need to get under control now. Rarely, if ever, would a non-alcoholic think of the idea to drink on the job on a regular on-going basis. If it's your job causing stress - I'd find a new job, because this one is taking it's toll.

Answer 7

An alcoholic is someone who needs liquor in order to get through their day. And as stress increases- as it has seemed to- the drinking increases. I'd say lay off the drinks for at least a week and see how you feel- if you can't seem to function without it, then I'd say you have a problem that needs to be addressed immediately.

Answer 8

Hey Sarah,

I will answer this fairly easily, A Non-Alcoholic never asks themself if they are an alcoholic!

If you are not getting drunk, then why do you think it's so much fun? Your friend will probably get in trouble first and to try to save her job, will rat you out! Federal Employee or not, you will lose your job!

Sorry to hear that,

James

Answer 9

you probably should stop before that gets out of hand. it is fun, i know. ;) but you shouldn't risk your job over it. even if you are only getting a little buzzed now its still a bad habit to get into. i would say save it for when you get home. think of it as your reward at the end of the day.

p.s. i like your phrase "a thermos filled with fun." lol

Answer 10

You are laying the foundation to become an alcoholic. Why take the chance.

Besides, if you are working while under the influence, you cannot be working full capacity. If you are not working full capacity you are stealing from your employer. Since your employer is the federal government you are stealing from ME.

Just what "important" job are you screwing up and who is getting effed in the process?

Answer 11

Yes you are. I bet you are also a lot of fun when you drive home after work. Luckily your employer will soon catch on (maybe when he finds you passed out on the floor somewhere) and will fire you so this won't remain a problem.

Did you ever wonder why this co-worker is plying you with liquor at his own expense every day? It is probably cheaper than a date rape drug is one guess.