Alcohol has been ingrained in our society for centuries, often used to mark celebrations and special occasions. Yet, the same substance that brings joy can also lead individuals to seek alcohol rehab as it takes over their lives. In England alone, more than 100,000 people are currently undergoing treatment for alcohol addiction, a number that continues to grow.

CAGE Questionnaire | Alcohol Abuse Screening Test

The CAGE questionnaire: Assessing alcohol dependency

If you’re questioning whether alcohol is having a negative impact on your life, the CAGE questionnaire is a quick and effective screening tool designed to help identify potential alcohol-related concerns. This widely recognised self-assessment is used by healthcare professionals and individuals alike to gauge whether drinking habits may indicate a deeper issue.

At Primrose Lodge, we understand that recognising a problem is the first step towards recovery. By answering just four simple questions, the CAGE questionnaire can provide valuable insight into whether professional support may be beneficial.

What is the CAGE questionnaire?

The CAGE questionnaire is a short, four-question assessment focusing on key indicators of problematic drinking. Each question is designed to help individuals reflect on their alcohol consumption and its effects on their well-being.

The name CAGE comes from the four key areas it evaluates:

Cutting down: Have you ever felt the need to cut back on your drinking?
Annoyance: Have people annoyed you by criticising your drinking?
Guilt: Have you ever felt guilty about your drinking habits?
Eye-opener: Have you ever needed a drink first thing in the morning to steady yourself or relieve a hangover?

Each “yes” response is assigned one point, and a score of two or more suggests that further evaluation from a healthcare professional may be beneficial.

Why take the CAGE questionnaire?

The CAGE questionnaire is not a diagnostic tool but a first step in identifying potential alcohol dependency. If your answers suggest a concern, it may be time to seek professional support. Alcohol addiction can develop gradually, often without a person realising the extent of their dependence.

Taking this short questionnaire can help you:

Recognise if alcohol is affecting your daily life
Understand whether professional intervention may be needed
Take control and explore the next steps toward recovery

Getting support at Primrose Lodge

If your CAGE questionnaire results indicate concerns about alcohol use, Primrose Lodge is here to help. We provide:

Confidential alcohol assessments to understand your needs
Medically supervised detox in a safe, comfortable environment
Personalised rehabilitation programmes designed for lasting recovery

Recognising an issue with alcohol is a courageous first step. Whether you’re seeking guidance for yourself or a loved one, support is available.

Don’t wait—contact Primrose Lodge today for a free consultation and start your journey toward recovery.