Common signs of alcoholism include: • Poor coordination • Slurred speech • Impaired thinking • Memory impairment • Desire to stop drinking, yet use continues • Diverting energy in order to drink • Being secretive about the extent of alcohol abuse • Engaging in risky behavior, including drunk driving • Being in denial about alcohol abuse • Becoming distressed without access to alcohol Withdrawal symptoms of alcohol abuse, which may begin as soon as two hours after the last drink and can last for weeks, will emerge when a person stops drinking or significantly reduces the amount of intake. Symptoms can include: • Shaking • Anxiety • The desire for a drink • Delirium tremens (DTs) a severe symptom, includes: • Confusion • Fever • Rapid heartbeat As some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, detoxification from alcohol should be monitored by a medical professional specializing in addiction treatment.