If you believe that your partner, friend or relative is developing a dependence on alcohol, it is time for serious action. Be on your guard as the person concerned may give the argument that they a drink is necessary for relaxing after work.

How can you be sure that the person you are worried about is indeed addicted to drinking? Observe how he/she behaves if they can't have a drink. Do they show signs of irritability? Are they unable to handle stress? Do they go to great lengths to be sure they can get beer or vodka,  when they want it?

The drink addict requires alcohol to enjoy himself and deal with life. Do not wait for very obvious signs to show before seeking help. Many alcoholics are able to perform well, socially as well as professionally. So it might be that a person's work performance or social activity will show no signs of change.
If speaking to the person gently isn't working, then it is wise to try the intervention method. This involves a good number of friends and family members meeting with the person and confronting him/her with the facts. Ideally before meeting, you should have a rehab facility picked out so that immediate action can be taken if the person agrees to seek help. Each person should have a letter prepared to read aloud to the drinker. To ensure that everything goes smoothly, you need to prepare in advance the role each person will play at meeting and re-hearse what will be said to counter possible objections.
There is no guarantee that intervention will work, but this method has been found to be successful for many alcoholics. Your loved one needs your support and guidance to put the addiction behind him and lead a healthy life.