18F worried I might have a drinking problem – could this be early alcohol dependence?

Hi, I’m an 18-year-old girl. I don’t usually drink, not at clubs or anywhere, and when I do, it’s just a little – never really drunk, always under one promille.

Lately, I’ve been buying wine a lot, usually red and pretty strong. I feel like I can’t stop, and I hide it from my friends – no one knows. My mind is constantly on it: “I want wine, I need wine.” Without it, I get irritated and restless.

I drink maybe 1–3 bottles a week. I’d drink more if I could afford it, but I’m scared my friends would notice if they came over – I live alone. During the day, at school and with other stuff, I mostly get through thinking about drinking in the evening. I usually have 3–4 glasses a night.

I really feel like I can’t stop. Is this just a phase, or could this be early alcohol dependence? I’d really like to hear if anyone else has been in a similar situation.

I’m legally of age to drink at 18 in my country.