Often, it is the loved ones who first notice the warning signs of alcoholism because those actually afflicted are in denial. They do not see, nor do they want to see, that there may be a problem with their drinking. Occasionally, however, the alcoholic does see themselves when they read the warning signs, even if they don’t admit it right away. In fact, one of the warning signs of alcoholism is denial, or refusing to see that there is a problem with alcohol.