CONTENTS

About This Course

Table of Contents

1. Getting The Basics
2. Substance Abuse
3. Violence Against Women
4. Violent Men
5. Alcohol and Violence
6. Alcohol, Drugs and Sexual Assault (Date Rape)
7. Preventing Sexual Assault
8. After a Rape or Sexual Assault
9. Assistance - Women
10. Assistance - Men
11. Legal Options

Supplements
Resources
Glossary
Fact Sheets

It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women for Anyone Concerned About The Issues

How To Tell If Someone Has a Drinking Problem

The following four questions can help you find out if a drinking problem exists. To help remember these questions, note that the first letter of a key word in each question spells the word "CAGE."

• Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?
• Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
• Have you ever felt bad or Guilty about your drinking?
• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (Eye opener)?³

The effects of alcohol abuse can be extremely serious--even fatal--to you and to others.

One "yes" response suggests a possible alcohol problem. If you answered "yes" to two or more questions, it is likely that a problem exists. It is important to see your doctor or other health care provider as soon as possible to discuss your answers to these questions. He or she can help you determine whether you have a drinking problem and recommend appropriate resources.

You may answer "no" to all the questions but still feel that you are having drinking-related problems with your job, relationships, health, or the law. If so, you should seek professional help. The effects of alcohol abuse can be extremely serious--even fatal--to you and to others.

Recognizing alcohol or drug problems in young people can be challenging. The symptoms may appear to be adolescent moodiness or teenage rebellion. And most teenagers will not walk up to someone they are close to and ask for help. In fact, they will probably do everything possible to deny or hide the problem.

There are signs to look for. For example, if your child or friend starts avoiding you or lying to you, it could be a sign of trouble. You may want to explore the matter further so that you can help.