Alcoholism vs Alcohol Use: What’s The Difference?
You should also see a professional before quitting alcohol if you have other health conditions. However, since alcohol affects people in different ways, recognizing AUD in yourself or in others can be subjective and challenging. Read on to learn more about the symptoms, risk factors, treatments, diagnosis, and where to get support. If your pattern of drinking results in repeated significant distress and problems functioning in your daily life, you likely have alcohol use disorder. However, even a mild disorder can escalate and lead to serious problems, so early treatment is important. According to the CDC, most people who drink too much are not alcohol-dependent, and 9 out of 10 adults engaging in alcohol abuse do not have alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Alcohol use encompasses the consumption of alcoholic beverages for various purposes, including socializing, relaxation, and celebration. However, it is essential to note that alcohol use does not necessarily indicate problematic or excessive drinking. Remember that recovery from alcoholism is possible, and seeking help is the first step towards a healthier and happier life. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use or alcoholism, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with alcohol use and alcoholism. These groups provide a supportive community of individuals who understand what it’s like to struggle with addiction, and can offer guidance and encouragement throughout the recovery process.
- More resources for a variety of healthcare professionals can be found in the Additional Links for Patient Care.
- AUD and depressive disorders appear to share some behavioral, genetic, and environmental risk factors, yet these shared risks remain poorly understood.
- Conversely, alcoholism encompasses all the effects of alcohol abuse but also includes physical dependence.
- Delirium tremens is a symptom of severe alcohol withdrawal that can be potentially fatal.
Encouraging Healthy Alcohol Use Practices
Another significant difference between alcohol use and alcoholism is the impact on physical and mental health. While moderate alcohol use is generally considered safe for most individuals, excessive alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on health. Prolonged and heavy drinking may contribute to various health problems, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Understanding the effects of alcohol abuse versus alcoholism is crucial in recognizing the severity and implications of each condition. Alcohol abuse, often considered a precursor to alcoholism, can lead to significant negative consequences in an individual’s life without the presence of physical dependence. These may include drinking in higher amounts or for longer periods than intended, unsuccessful attempts to control consumption, and continued drinking despite social, legal, How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System or health problems.
Although it is best to consult with a medical professional for expert advice, you can do a quick self-check. Ask yourself whether you have any of the symptoms listed above and see how many apply to your life. It’s important to be patient with oneself throughout the process and to seek help when needed. With the right strategies and support network in place, it’s possible to maintain sobriety and live a fulfilling life in recovery. Staying accountable to oneself and others can help maintain motivation and prevent relapse after completing treatment.
People with DSM-IV alcohol dependence are 3.7 times more likely to also have major depressive disorder, and 2.8 times more likely to have dysthymia, in the previous year. Among people in treatment for DSM-IV AUD, almost 33% met criteria for major depressive disorder in the past year, and 11% met criteria for dysthymia. However, major depressive disorder is the most common co-occurring disorder among people who have AUD, partly because it is among the most common disorders in the general population.
Behavioral Treatments
Both conditions can lead to an increased risk of co-occurring mental health disorders, necessitating treatment that addresses both substance use and mental health simultaneously. It’s important to note that while the effects of alcohol abuse can be severe, the progression to alcoholism involves a heightened level of physical and psychological dependence, making it a more complex and challenging condition to treat. Understanding the distinctions between alcohol abuse and alcoholism is crucial for recognizing the severity and implications of each condition. Alcohol abuse, often referred to as problem drinking, involves consuming alcohol in a way that negatively impacts one’s life and responsibilities, such as work or relationships. Key indicators of alcohol abuse include drinking in dangerous situations, experiencing recurring alcohol-related legal problems, and continuing to drink despite persistent interpersonal issues caused by alcohol.
Definition of Alcoholism
This CME/CE credit opportunity is jointly provided by the Postgraduate Institute for Medicine and NIAAA. Alcohol use can range from occasional and moderate consumption to more frequent or heavy drinking. Understanding the boundaries of responsible alcohol use is crucial to maintaining a healthy relationship with alcohol.
What are some long-term effects of excessive alcohol consumption?
If you’re concerned about someone who drinks too much, ask a professional experienced in alcohol treatment for advice on how to approach that person. The main difference between AUD and alcoholism is clinical terminology and diagnosis. A doctor won’t diagnose you with alcoholism, but you may hear this term used in non-clinical settings to describe the symptoms and effects of alcohol use disorder. These two terms were once used interchangeably, but this changed in 2013, when the DSM-5 recognized AUD as the official diagnosable condition.
