The three stages of alcoholism, also known as the stages of alcoholism, are defined as a progressive sequence of symptoms and behaviors that occur as a result of chronic alcohol consumption. These stages are characterized by different levels of alcohol dependence, physical health problems, and psychological damage. The three stages of alcoholism are pre-alcoholic, early-onset, and late-onset alcoholism. Each stage has distinct characteristics, and they often overlap and intermingle with each other. The following is a detailed explanation of each stage:

1. Pre-alcoholic stage:
The pre-alcoholic stage is also referred to as the experimentation or social-drinking phase. It is characterized by occasional alcohol consumption without significant negative consequences. The person may enjoy drinking alcohol with friends or during social events. In this stage, there is usually no physical dependence on alcohol, and the individual's alcohol intake is not a priority. However, this stage may serve as the foundation for later stages of alcoholism. The warning signs for the pre-alcoholic stage include:

- Increased tolerance for alcohol
- Drinking alcohol to escape problems or emotional distress
- Drinking alcohol to alleviate stress or boredom
- A tendency to drink on weekdays and at home

2. Early-onset stage:
This stage marks the transition from social drinking to a more problematic and harmful pattern of alcohol consumption. During this stage, there is a greater risk of developing alcohol dependence, as the individual starts to rely on alcohol for coping with life's challenges and emotional problems. In this stage, there may be a sense of loss of control over alcohol intake, and the individual might experience some negative consequences from alcohol use. The warning signs for the early-onset stage include:

- Drinking larger amounts of alcohol at a time
- Feeling guilty or ashamed about drinking
- Being secretive about drinking habits
- Having blackouts or memory lapses after drinking
- Struggling to stop drinking after a night of heavy consumption
- Increased irritability and mood swings when not drinking

3. Late-onset stage:
The late-onset stage is the most severe form of alcoholism, also known as chronic alcoholism. In this stage, the individual has developed a full-blown addiction to alcohol, and the physical and psychological harm caused by alcohol has become apparent. This stage is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol and a high risk of developing physical and mental health problems. The person's daily routine is largely affected by their alcohol consumption, and their relationships and work or school life might be negatively impacted. The warning signs for the late-onset stage include:

- Developing alcohol tolerance and needing larger amounts to achieve the desired effect
- Experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, including shaking, nausea, and sweating
- Developing health problems such as liver damage, heart disease, or neurological issues
- Experiencing memory problems, including blackouts and poor decision-making skills
- Having a strained or broken relationship with family and friends due to alcohol abuse
- Developing symptoms of depression or anxiety
- Having financial difficulties as a result of alcoholism

It is crucial to note that the three stages of alcoholism are not always clear-cut and can vary significantly between individuals. Additionally, there may be a back-and-forth movement between stages as an individual's alcohol consumption changes over time. However, identifying these stages can be essential in understanding the severity of a person's alcohol abuse and taking appropriate measures to address the issue. Seeking professional help, such as attending therapy or joining a support group, can significantly improve the chances of overcoming alcoholism.