Addictive Disorders

Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

For many individuals, the specifics about alcoholism are not comprehensible. What is alcoholism, precisely? How does it vary from alcohol abuse? When should an individual get support for a problem associated with his or her drinking problem? The following information provides details about both alcoholism and alcohol abuse, the symptoms of each, when and where to get help, and treatment options.

What Is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism, otherwise known as "alcohol dependence", is an illness that consists of four symptoms:

• Craving: A powerful need or urge to drink.

• Loss of control: The lack of ability to control ones drinking on any given occasion.

• Physical dependency: Withdrawal symptoms such as queasiness, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety happen when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.

• Tolerance: The need to consume greater amounts of alcohol in order to "get high".

Individuals who are not alcoholics occasionally do not comprehend why an alcoholic cannot "just use a little willpower" to quit drinking; alcoholism has little to do with willpower. Alcoholics are in the grip of a strong "craving", or uncontrollable need for alcohol that supersedes their capability to quit drinking. This need can be as physically powerful as the need for food or water.

What Is Alcohol Abuse?

Alcohol abuse is described as a pattern of drinking that results in one or more of the following circumstances inside a 12-month cycle:

• The inability to complete important work, school, or home tasks.

• Consuming alcohol during circumstances that are physically dangerous, such as while operating a vehicle or machinery.

• Experiencing frequent alcohol related legal problems, such as being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or for physically hurting someone while intoxicated; and

• Continued drinking in spite of the endless relationship problems that are created or worsened by the drinking.

Alcohol abuse is different from alcoholism in that it does not involve an extremely strong desire for alcohol, loss of control, over drinking, or physical need.

What are the Symptoms of a Drinking Problem?

How can an individual distinguish whether they may have a drinking problem? Answering the following four questions can help you find out:

• Have you ever felt you should moderate your drinking?

• Have individuals annoyed you by disapproving of your drinking?

• Have you ever felt regretful or remorseful about your drinking?

• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning (as an "eye opener") to calm your nerves or get rid of a hangover?

One "yes" answer suggests a possible drinking problem. If you answered "yes" to more than one question, it is highly likely that a problem exists. In either case, it is important that you see your doctor or other health care provider right away to discuss your answers to these questions. He or she can help you determine whether you have a drinking problem and if so, recommend the best course of action.

Even if you answered "no" to all of the above questions, if you encounter drinking related problems with your job, relationships, health, or the law, you should seek professional help. The effects of alcohol abuse can be extremely serious, even fatal, both to you and to others.

Can Alcoholism Be Cured?

Though alcoholism can be treated, a cure is not yet available. Yet, if an alcoholic has been sober for a long time and has regained health, he or she remains vulnerable to relapse and must continue to keep away from all alcoholic beverages. "Moderation" doesn't work; cutting out alcohol is essential for a successful alcoholism recovery.

Even individuals who are determined to stay sober may endure one or numerous "slips", or relapses, before accomplishing lasting sobriety. Relapses are very common and do not mean that an individual has been unsuccessful or cannot recover from alcoholism. Keep in mind, too, that every day that a recovering alcoholic has remained sober prior to a relapse is extremely valuable time, both to the individual and to his or her family.

The Choice To Get Help

Recognizing the fact that help is needed for alcoholism recovery may not be easy. However,the sooner you get help, the better are your chances for a successful recovery.

Any worries you may have about discussing a drinking problem with your physician may stem from common misconceptions about alcoholism and treatment. In our society, the myth prevails that a drinking problem is a sign of moral weakness. As a result, you may believe that to seek help is to admit some type of shameful defect in yourself. In fact, alcoholism is a disease that is no more a sign of weakness than is asthma. Furthermore, taking steps to identify a possible drinking problem has an enormous payoff - a chance for a healthier and more rewarding life.