The illicit drugs described have a high addiction potential and there is a gradual increase in their intake. The user gets dependent on these drugs both physically and psychologically . Certain changes occur at the level of cell receptors in the brain. Any attempt to reduce the dose or an effort to stop the drug gives rise to severe withdrawal symptoms which at times are life threatening.

Ask yourself the following test questions. Answer them as honestly as you can. (If the answers are 'No' to all the questions, re-answer them with the help of your spouse or the closest member the your family).

'It is a highly relapse–prone disease. A rigorous maintenance schedule is essential in order to stay sober'

• 1. Do you lose time from work due to drinking?   Yes   No
• 2. Is drinking making your home life unhappy?   Yes   No
• 3. Do you drink because you are shy with other people?   Yes   No
• 4. Is drinking affecting your reputation?   Yes   No
• 5. Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?   Yes   No
• 6. Have you ever got into financial difficulties as a result of drinking?   Yes   No
• 7. Do you turn to lower companions and an inferior environment when drinking?   Yes   No
• 8. Does drinking make you careless of your family's welfare?   Yes   No
• 9. Has your ambition decreased since drinking?   Yes   No
• 10. Do you crave for a drink at a definite time daily?   Yes   No
• 11. Do you want a drink the next morning?   Yes   No
• 12. Does drinking cause you to have difficulty in sleeping?   Yes   No
• 13. Has your efficiency decreased since drinking?   Yes   No
• 14. Is drinking jeopardizing your job or business?   Yes   No
• 15. Do you drink to escape from worries or trouble?   Yes   No
• 16. Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?   Yes   No
• 17. Do you drink alone?   Yes   No
• 18. Has a physician ever treated you for drinking?   Yes   No
• 19. Do you drink to build up your self-confidence?   Yes   No
• 20. Have you ever been in a hospital or institution on account of drinking?   Yes   No

Analysis of questionnaire

If you have answered YES to any one of the questions, there is a definite warning that you may be an alcoholic.

If you have answered YES to any two, the chances are that you're an alcoholic.

If you have answered YES to three or more, you are definitely an alcoholic.

(John Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA uses the above test questions, in deciding whether or not a person is an alcoholic)