According to the World Health Organization's moderate drinking guidelines, women should consume no more than one 5 ounce serving of alcohol per day, and men are to consume no more than two 5 ounce serving of alcohol per day. A 5 ounce serving of alcohol is equal to one shot of 100 proof liquor or a 12 ounce mug of beer. In addition, women should not consume more than 4 alcoholic beverages on any occasion, and men should not consume more than 5. The more a person goes over these recommended amounts of alcohol consumption, the higher his or her risk for alcohol dependence.
Please answer "Yes" or "No" if you have engaged in or experienced any of the following behaviors over the past month.
- Drank more than 5 drinks on one occasion of drinking
- Forgot events after a night of drinking
- Felt guilt or remorse after drinking alcohol
- Had trouble at home due to alcohol use
- Had trouble at work due to alcohol use
- Missed work or an activity because of alcohol use
- Hid or lied about alcohol use
- Needed alcohol in the morning after night of drinking
- Been unable to go without drinking for long periods
- Had tremors or other symptoms due to not having alcohol
- Had family or others voice concern about alcohol use
If you answered "Yes" to 3 or more of these, then you might be misusing alcohol. If you are concerned about your alcohol use, please seek medical and/or psychological support. If you are a VUMC faculty or staff member, you can start by calling Work/Life Connections – EAP at (615) 936-1327 for a free, confidential assessment.
Please consult the Vanderbilt Health and Wellness Resource Library for more information on Substance Use Issues.
