Understanding the Stages of Alcoholism

If you're starting to question whether your drinking or someone else's might be a problem, pay attention to that instinct. Many people wrestle with quiet concerns—feeling anxious, guilty or unsure of what's normal. Alcohol use disorder doesn't happen overnight. It develops gradually, moving through distinct stages. Spotting those stages early can help you take action and begin making changes for a healthier path forward.

At Hazelden Betty Ford, we offer clarity and compassion for anyone navigating these questions. Whether you're seeking help for yourself or someone you care about, we're here to guide you with expertise and heart.

Stage 1: Pre-Alcoholic

This stage often flies under the radar. You might drink to unwind, to cope with stress, or to feel more comfortable in social situations. Over time, alcohol becomes your go-to tool for managing emotions. You may not see it as a problem yet, but this is where dependence can quietly begin.

Common signs

• Drinking to relieve anxiety or sadness
• Using alcohol to escape or numb feelings
• Increasing tolerance (needing more to feel the same effect)

Stage 2: Early Alcoholic

At this stage, drinking starts to take up more of your mental space. You might find yourself thinking about alcohol often, hiding how much you drink or experiencing blackouts when you drink. You may feel ashamed or defensive, but also unsure how to stop.

Common signs

• Lying about drinking habits
• Drinking secretly or alone
• Experiencing blackouts or memory lapses
• Feeling anxious when not drinking

Stage 3: Middle Alcoholic

At this point, alcohol begins to interfere with your daily life. Loved ones may notice changes in your mood, behavior or appearance. You might miss work, neglect responsibilities, or feel physically unwell. At this stage, you likely are feeling stuck, wanting to change but unsure how.

Common signs

• Mood swings and irritability
• Weight changes, bloating, fatigue
• Neglecting work, family or self-care
• Drinking despite negative consequences

Stage 4: Late Alcoholic

This is the most severe stage, where alcohol essentially dominates your life. Health problems emerge, relationships suffer and your attempts to quit may trigger serious withdrawal symptoms. While this is an isolating and frightening place to be, please know that recovery is still possible.

Common signs

• Drinking all day or needing alcohol to function
• Tremors, hallucinations or seizures when trying to stop
• Hospital visits or chronic health issues
• Deep feelings of shame, loneliness or despair

Stage 5: Recovery

Recovery begins with a decision to try. From the first steps of detox to building new routines and relationships, recovery is about learning to live without alcohol and reconnecting with what matters most.

With the right support, you can rebuild your health, restore your confidence, and rediscover your sense of purpose. Healing is possible, and you don't have to do it alone.

Who's at risk of alcoholism?

Alcohol use disorder can affect anyone, regardless of background or lifestyle. But some factors can make you more vulnerable. If you grew up around addiction, started drinking at a young age (especially before age 15) or have experienced trauma or ongoing stress, your risk of developing an alcohol use disorder may be higher. Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression or PTSD can also increase the likelihood of developing a dependence on alcohol.

Understanding these risk factors can help you make informed choices and seek support early, before things escalate.

Worried about yourself or someone else?

If you're reading this and feeling concerned, that's actually a powerful first step toward making some choices and some changes. You don't have to wait until things get worse to reach out. Help is available, and it works.

You're Not Alone. We're Here to Help.

At Hazelden Betty Ford, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care for every stage of alcohol use disorder. Whether you're seeking answers, support or treatment, we're ready to walk with you.

Call us confidentially at 1-866-831-5700 or take our brief self-assessment to explore your options.