When do alcoholics first discuss drinking problems?

The first occurence of help seeking as measured by first discussion among alcoholics were studied. Results showed that alcoholics usually experience numerous problems first before seeking professional help for their drinking problem. This was made evident by ranking alcohol symptoms such as social impairment, pathological use and tolerance/withdrawal before first discussion about drinking problem with a health professional or attending Alcoholic Anonymous. Early identification of the drinking problem and well-timed intervention may have a positive effect on the course of alcoholism.