Some early warning sins that an individual is an alcoholic are that he/or she:

1. Exhibits an increased tolerance for alcohol
2. Shows discomfort when he/or she is without alcohol
3. Has more confidence when drinking
4. Hides his/or her use
5. Experiences memory loss
6. Becomes distressed when drinking is discussed
7. Changes his/or her drug or drink use
8. Experiences morning after reactions
9. Has school, work, or family problems
10. Is not able to cease or control use
11. Drinks for fast results
12. Is jailed or has legal problems
13. Changes his or her priorities
14. Is challenged by friends or family
15. Has financial difficulties
16. Is hospitalized

Beyond the initial signs of alcohol use, there two more stages of alcoholism. The middle stage is where the user will experience blackouts, indistinct feelings of guilt and regret, drinking solitarily, a growing inability to stay in control, an alibi system, family withdrawal, financial loss, and antisocial behavior. In the late stages of alcoholism the individual will have moved on from vague to extreme feelings of guilt and regret, to morning drinking and overprotection of drinks, and to indistinct fears and resentment. The individual's drinking pattern will also change, followed by a failure of the alibi system. The individual's financial gains will also often turn into real poverty.