When do alcoholics first discuss drinking problems?

Data from a sample of 338 alcoholics who were identified from medical record reviews and diagnosed as alcohol dependent according to DSM-III criteria by means of a structured psychiatric interview were analyzed to determine when in the course of alcohol disorder development first discussion with a health professional about their drinking problems had occurred. The data support an image of alcoholics as experiencing many drinking problems before seeking professional help and, particularly, before attending AA. These data point to early identification as a possible fruitful strategy to alleviate some of the social costs of drinking problems.