Phase 1 - return of denial

• concern about mood;
• not admitting anxiety;

Phase 2 - escape and defensive behaviours

• "I will never drink again" belief;
• worrying about others instead of oneself;
• defensive behaviour;
• compulsive or rigid behaviour;
• overeating;
• dieting;
• gambling;
• work;
• sex;
• spending money;
• stimulating sensations;
• sports;
• escape from monotony;
• impulsive behaviour;
• ability to isolate oneself from people;

Phase 3 - critical build-up

• tunnel vision;
• masked depression;
• loss of constructive planning;
• plans begin to fail;

Phase 4 - loss of the ability to function

• daydreaming and wishful thinking;
• feeling that nothing can be solved;
• an immature desire to be happy;

Phase 5 - confusion and hyperactivity

• periods of confusion;
• irritation towards loved ones;
• easily irritated;

Phase 6 - depression

• irregular eating;
• lack of desire to do anything;
• sleep disorders;
• unstructured days without any routine;
• periods of deep depression;

Phase 7 - loss of control over behaviour

• irregular attendance at AA meetings;
• "I don't care" attitude;
• explicit rejection of help;
• dissatisfaction with life;
• feeling helpless and powerless;

Phase 8 - awareness of the loss of control

• self-pity;
• thinking about social drinking;
• purposeful lying;
• complete loss of self-confidence;

Phase 9 - limiting the number of choices

• unjustified resentment towards everyone about everything;
• discontinuation of all treatment and contacts in AA;
• overwhelming loneliness, anger and tension;
• loss of control over behaviour;

Phase 10 - relapse episode

• first glass;
• shame and guilt;
• helplessness and hopelessness;
• total loss of hope for control;
• physical, mental and social damage;
• complete collapse;