Alcohol screening test

How much a person uses alcohol is a very individual choice. Our preferences are probably shaped by many factors including some which are more biological and some which are more psychological or social. We are often hesitant to comment on someone else's drinking because we believe that everyone is free to make their own choices, including the choice to drink too much or not at all. Do you think your roommate or your romantic partner drink too much? Do friends or your parents think you drink too much? Have you ever wondered about your own pattern of alcohol use, and how it measures up to what is normal, or average?

Many screening tests have been developed over the years, with the goal of helping people know when alcohol use is beginning to cause problems for a person. Two screening tests that have withstood the test of time are the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST), and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) developed by the World Health Organization. Recent research reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, suggests that the AUDIT is the most reliable across gender, racial and national identities.

Remember that a screening test does not provide a definitive diagnosis, but rather suggests who is most likely to have a problem. Consider the results of screening tests as one source of information. It is always wise to consult with a real person -- a counselor, a doctor, or other health professional -- before concluding you have or do not have a problem with alcohol. Clicking on the link at the bottom of this page will take you to a listing of on campus and off campus resources for getting a second opinion, or starting to get help if that is what you are ready to do.

Alcohol problem screening tests...

Click here to take the AUDIT or Click here to take the AUDIT .

Click here to take the MAST .

Try to answer the questions honestly. It's only between you and your keyboard.

Where to go for help...

If you have used one of the screening tests above, and you get a score indicating that you may have a problem, the next step might be to talk to a professional. The Counseling Center may be a good place to start, since we are easily accessible and available to you at no charge. To schedule an appointment with a counselor at the Counseling Center, call : 436-3368.

If you prefer to talk to someone off campus, you can click here to see a list of individuals and agencies in the community.

If you feel that your alcohol or other drug use may be causing or contributing to problems with your health, you may call for an appointment at the Health Center, at: 436-3573.

If you are concerned about confidentiality related to your alcohol or other drug problem, remember that services at the Counseling Center and Health Center are confidential within certain very specific limits recognized in New York State.