The crucial phase is the initial stage of addiction where the person is going from occasional drinking that is not a problem to using alcohol to cope with life in an unhealthy manner. In this stage, the person starts drinking more, often increasing both the amount of alcohol and frequency of drinking. At this point the person may experience:
Increased alcohol tolerance
Drinking in the morning or earlier in the day than is usually socially acceptable
Loss of control or willpower when it comes to alcohol
Blackouts
Feelings of shame or guilt about drinking behaviors
Neglect of other areas of life, including career, hygiene and basic nutrition
Ongoing problems with family relationships