At what stage is something classed as an adiction?

[Timothy]

I have a pretty addictive personality to put it straight, i have always loved to gamble, scratchies, online poker, pokies whilst on holiday, sporting events, the list goes on. This isn't what i am talking about though. Both my brothers are severe alcoholics because instead of seeking help for their depression, they try to drink away the bad feelings.

Now my question is at what stage does something become a problem? Being 16 i go out with my mates quite often, at least every Friday night and i have found that it now a habit for me to drink at least half a bottle of vodka every Friday night. I'm 6 foot 5 believe it or not but because i am on anti-depressants, it hits me pretty quickly and gets me quite drunk. I don't want to stop getting drunk every Friday because it makes me feel good but i don't want it to turn into an addiction and end up like my older brothers who's lives are both in tatters.

Any advice?

[Cherry Blossom]

It's good that you are aware that you have an addictive personality because you can hopefully start to recognise if you are taking it too far and perhaps have the will power to stop yourself before it becomes too late. Being 16 you know your not allowed to drink anyways, but you will despite the fact!

Weekend binging is a problem, if you can't go out on a friday night and not drink, then you are probably on the way to something more serious later on. You have your whole life to live - damaging your body at such a young age is not good for you. I was once where you are 15 years ago. Weekend binging, hanging out with my mates, smoking dope, taking drugs and my problem became more serious and by the age 18. My relationship with my family failed, and I ended up on the streets and spend many years nearly killing myself.

The fact that you are posting this would give me a sense that you might already have an idea that this is something to be concerned about. If you are worried, and you don't want to go down the same path then CHOOSE not to. You only have one life, how you use it is your choice. There is more to life than being off your face. The world is HUGE! The problem is, when you are too busy being drunk, or stoned or whatever - you won't get to experience it.

Cherry xo