Alcohol use disorder and gray area drinking affect millions who wonder "am I an alcoholic?" — but don't fit the stereotype. Licensed clinical social worker Kelley Kitley shares her personal recovery story and 20+ years of professional expertise to help you recognize the signs of problem drinking, understand the difference between sobriety and recovery, and find practical strategies for moderation, tapering, and navigating social situations without alcohol. Whether you're questioning your own drinking habits or supporting someone else, this expert interview breaks down DSM criteria, internal warning signs, and health risks in plain language you can actually understand.

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0:00 — Introduction: Who Is Kelley Kitley?
1:03 — Kelley's Personal Story: From Bar Business to Recovery
3:07 — What Is Alcohol Use Disorder? (DSM Criteria Explained)
6:46 — Signs of Problem Drinking & Gray Area Drinking
11:14 — Coping Mechanisms & Social Anxiety Without Alcohol
16:50 — Internal Signs, Moderation Management & "Dry January"
21:30 — Comparing Drinking Habits & Hidden Health Risks
26:06 — Sobriety vs. Recovery: Why Just Stopping Isn't Enough
34:42 — Brain Repair Timeline & Tapering Strategies
37:25 — Managing Social Situations in Sobriety

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