god, that's such a coincidence, I was going to post on something really similar. I've finally admitted to friends recently that I just don't like people when they're drunk. It was a first stage attempt to subtly let one particular friend know that I think she has a problem. She gets quite aggressive when she's had too much to drink. I really want to sit her down and tell her straight that there's a problem, but a different mutal friend has said "tough, it's non of your business, she's a grown up" and basically said butt out and stop being a martyr. Ehhh, sorry, it is my business, because I'm the only one who seems to care that she gets home in one piece, without a row, or something awful happening. She spoils the end of most evenings out and my other friends are now out right saying they'd rather I didn't invite her things. What does anyone else think? I'm not her mother, but surely as a friend I owe her the truth? Or am I being some holier than thou pompous nightmare??

Alice:-  You are so right, noone like to have their failings pointed out to them, be it drinking too much or anything else. We all like to think we are perfect, the only one who is always right etc, but sooner or later we find out the truth, and it can hurt.     Latchmere:- One approach is to start by making it clear that what you are about to say, you are saying as a friend and because you care. Whoever you are talking to could still react in an aggresive manner, but at least you will have gone in gently. Hopefully they listen and think about what you say, if so, it's maybe worth probing a little to get to the reason behind the drinking, everyone I've ever known who turns to drink (myself included) always had a reason over and above 'enjoying a few beers'.  

Thanks for your reply.  I fully appreciate that the situation with alcohol addiction can often be far worse and more grave.  This is a major concern.  How many of the heavy drinks I witnessed realise the damage they are doing to their livers, how many realise the hurt they can sometimes cause to others when tongues are loosened but far worse, how many of them may go on to develop a serious problem/addiction.  As somebody who absolutely enjoys a glass of wine or four, abstaining because I was driving, has been a valuable insight and lesson.

oh, count the minutes till six o'clock? I still do....