[zafka]

The fact that you ask the question, is a good indicator of a problem. That being said, this is a very complex subject, with a variety of solutions/paths. I myself stopped drinking 25 years ago,as I was less disciplined than you. For myself, I believe there was quite a bit of benefit/damage reduction from refraining from alcohol. Of course there are some negatives also, but I don't think for me that it was an option. Far more important, the practices I picked up to prevent me from drinking, have given me lasting benefits. The practice of daily personal evaluation, and corrective action, while not followed exhaustively has been an enormous benefit. I was introduced to meditation, and put on the path of continuous improvement, While these are just targets, it was a great starting point.

As I said at the beginning of my comment, the fact that you asked this question, shows you have awareness of a potential problem. I am not sure If I would be able to stop drinking if I had it as "under control" as you, but I think it is very commendable of you to be looking for answers. feel free to contact me anytime off list for any pointers, or references.

[PonyGumbo]

I disagree with the notion that simply asking the question is itself an indication of a problem. I can freak myself out about practically anything with almost no supporting evidence.

[solson]

I would go one step further than that. It seems to be a common response here that simply asking these questions indicates he has a problem. I've noticed that "treatment" types tend to have that response to all people asking questions about their personal drug use. The obvious result of this is that fewer people seek advice. They'll learn the typical reaction is, 'if he's asking about it and he's thinking about it, he's probably an addict.' That answer isn't helpful and it isn't intelligent. There should be some measurable standards of addiction. How you feel about it shouldn't be one of them.

[ctdonath]

And some of us will quietly contemplate the problem to the nth degree, and when we finally ask for help you'd better believe it's very serious and we're about to lose it.