Lena Savoie
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), formerly known as alcoholism, is a prevalent issue that affects not only the individuals suffering from it but also their loved ones. According to recent statistics, there are approximately 15 million people in the United States struggling with AUD, and it is estimated that 8% to 10% of them receive treatment. The impact of AUD extends beyond the individual, as it can have detrimental effects on families, communities, and the nation as a whole. The disorder is responsible for a significant number of deaths, with over 88,000 alcohol-related deaths occurring annually in the United States. Furthermore, children are also affected, with approximately 7.5 million adolescents living with at least one parent suffering from AUD. The disorder can lead to child deaths, with intoxicated adults causing 150 child deaths each year.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of people with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the US | 15 million |
| Percentage of people with AUD who receive treatment | 8% |
| Number of adolescents with a parent with AUD | 7.5 million |
| Percentage of children under 17 living with at least one parent with AUD | 12.1% |
| Percentage of children under 17 living with a single parent with AUD | 18.7% |
| Percentage of single fathers with AUD | 9.3% |
| Percentage of single mothers with AUD | 6.3% |
| Number of alcohol-related deaths in the US each year | 88,000-95,510 |
| Number of teen alcohol-related deaths each year | 4,700 |
| Percentage of Americans over 18 who have consumed alcohol | 86.4% |
| Percentage of adults over 18 who regularly consumed alcohol in 2018 | 52.8% |
| Percentage of adults over 18 who had at least one heavy drinking day in 2018 | 25.1% |
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What You'll Learn
Warning signs of a loved one's alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), or alcoholism, impacts not only the person struggling with the condition but also their loved ones. In the US, almost 15 million people over the age of 12 suffer from AUD, and many more are affected as family members or friends.
- They have developed a high tolerance for alcohol and can consume multiple drinks without appearing drunk. Their tolerance continues to grow over time, requiring more alcohol to achieve the desired effect.
- They are defensive about their drinking and become irate or hostile when confronted about their excessive consumption. They may make excuses or minimize the issue.
- They experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit or cut down, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, or anxiety.
- They neglect their responsibilities at work, school, or home, and their performance or attendance suffers as a result.
- They experience relationship problems with family or friends, which may be due to their drinking or related behavioural changes.
- They drink secretly or take steps to hide their drinking, such as brushing their teeth frequently to mask the smell of alcohol.
- They are unable to control their drinking or stop once they have started. They may try to set boundaries, such as limiting themselves to a certain number of drinks, but are unable to uphold them.
If you recognize these warning signs in a loved one, it is important to encourage them to seek help from a healthcare professional or support group. Recovery from alcoholism is possible with the right treatment and support.
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How to approach a loved one about their drinking problem
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) impacts not only the person with the condition but also their loved ones. In the United States, 15 million people above the age of 12 suffer from AUD, and it is estimated that 12.1% of children under 17 live with at least one parent with AUD. If you are concerned about a loved one's drinking problem, here are some ways to approach them:
Do Your Research:
Learn as much as you can about alcohol misuse and its effects. Understand that drinking problems are not defined by how often or how much someone drinks, but rather by how drinking negatively impacts their life. Educate yourself on the signs of alcohol misuse and the resources available for treatment. The more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to support your loved one.
Choose the Right Time:
Pick a time when your loved one is not under the influence of alcohol and is in a good mood. Avoid approaching them when they are stressed, as it may trigger strong emotions that could hinder a productive conversation. Ensure that you are both well-rested and clear-headed, creating an environment conducive to an open and calm discussion.
Express Your Concerns:
Use "I" statements to express how their drinking affects you and share specific examples of incidents that have worried you. For instance, you could say, "I felt scared last night when you were shouting after drinking," or "I noticed you missed work a few times, and I'm worried about how drinking is affecting your life." Try to stick to the facts and avoid lecturing, shaming, or using labels like "alcoholic."
Offer Solutions and Support:
Instead of simply pointing out the problem, try to offer solutions and suggest activities you can do together that do not involve drinking. Ask them what they would like to do and respect their comfort level. Offer to accompany them to appointments or meetings with a healthcare provider or addiction counselor. Encourage them to seek professional help and support them throughout their journey towards recovery.
Take Care of Yourself:
Remember, you cannot control your loved one's drinking habits, and it is not your responsibility to fix the problem. Ensure that you also seek support from friends, family, or groups specifically designed to support those dealing with a loved one's drinking problem, such as Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, or Alateen. Taking care of yourself is crucial, as it enables you to provide better support and maintain your own well-being.
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Treatment options for loved ones with alcohol use disorder
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a common medical condition that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. It is estimated that 15 million Americans suffer from AUD, and it is responsible for 95,510 deaths in the US each year. The disorder can strain personal relationships and impact families, with approximately 7.5 million adolescents in the US living with at least one parent with AUD.
For loved ones of people with AUD, there are several treatment options and support systems available:
- Mutual-support groups: Support from friends and family can play a crucial role in overcoming AUD. Loved ones can seek support from mutual-support groups, such as Al-Anon and Alateen, which provide a community of people who understand the challenges of having a loved one with AUD. These groups offer guidance, emotional support, and a sense of belonging.
- Behavioural therapy: Behavioural therapy can be beneficial for both the individual with AUD and their loved ones. Therapy can help address underlying issues, improve communication, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with the impact of AUD on their lives.
- Mental health services: AUD often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and other substance use disorders. It is important for loved ones to address their own mental health and seek professional help if they develop symptoms of depression or anxiety due to the stress of caring for someone with AUD.
- Medication: While the focus is often on treating the individual with AUD, medications like disulfiram can be used to treat AUD itself. This medication discourages drinking by causing unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication.
- Hotlines and helplines: Hotlines like the National Helpline for Mental Health, Drug, and Alcohol Issues (1-800-662-HELP) offer free and confidential support. They provide referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Additionally, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 for individuals thinking about suicide or worried about a loved one.
It is important to remember that recovery from AUD is a journey that takes time and effort. Loved ones can play a vital role in supporting the individual's recovery process, but it is also essential for them to prioritize their own well-being and seek help when needed.
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Impact of a loved one's alcoholism on children
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), formerly known as alcoholism, impacts not only the individual but also their loved ones, communities, and the nation as a whole. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), almost 15 million people over the age of 12 in the United States had AUD. This includes 6.4% of adolescents aged 12 to 17, translating to about 7.5 million young people living with at least one parent with AUD.
The impact of a loved one's alcoholism, especially that of a parent, can have significant and long-lasting effects on children. Here are some key ways in which a loved one's alcoholism can influence a child's life:
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Growing up with alcoholic parents can lead to adverse childhood experiences. Studies show that children affected by AUDs reported having, on average, 2.1 ACEs. These experiences can increase the risk of developing various issues in adulthood, such as smoking, obesity, depression, and substance use disorders (SUDs).
- Psychological and Emotional Toll: Children with alcoholic parents can suffer from a range of psychological and emotional problems, including loneliness, depression, anxiety, guilt, anger issues, low self-esteem, and trust problems. They may also develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adulthood due to their traumatic childhood experiences.
- Relationship and Social Issues: Children of parents with AUD often face difficulties in their relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. They may struggle with social situations, have trouble making friends, and isolate themselves due to feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness. Adult children of parents with AUD often have trust issues and struggle with intimacy, sometimes avoiding close relationships altogether.
- Normalization of Alcohol Use: In families with alcoholism, alcohol use can become normalized, making it challenging for children to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy drinking habits. This normalization can lead to a higher risk of excessive drinking later in life, with children of alcoholic parents being four times as likely to engage in excessive drinking themselves.
- Genetic Factors and Risk of AUD: Genetic factors also play a role, as children of alcoholic parents are genetically predisposed to developing an alcohol use disorder themselves. This risk is further exacerbated by the normalization of alcohol use and the potential for self-medication to cope with the trauma and emotional difficulties they experience.
- Economic and Socioeconomic Impact: The impact of a loved one's alcoholism can also have economic consequences for children. The financial burden of alcoholism can affect family stability and resources, potentially leading to a lower socioeconomic status for the children in adulthood.
It is important to recognize that the impact of a loved one's alcoholism on children can be profound and long-lasting. Seeking professional help and support is crucial for both the affected individual and their family to address the complex issues that arise from this disorder.
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Financial costs of a loved one's alcoholism
Alcohol abuse can have a significant financial impact on both the individual and their loved ones. The financial cost of alcoholism varies from person to person, and there is no fixed guide. However, it can quickly add up, costing far more than the price of the alcohol itself.
The cost of alcohol itself can vary dramatically depending on where and how often it is purchased. For example, a bottle of wine at a fine-dining restaurant will likely have a different price tag than the same bottle bought at a local store. The average person's spending on alcohol per month can vary, depending on their drinking habits and preferences. For instance, someone who enjoys a few drinks a week at a bar could easily spend hundreds of dollars a month, whereas someone who only drinks the occasional glass of wine at home will spend significantly less. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a one-glass-a-day habit could cost $1,456 per year.
In addition to the direct costs of alcohol, there are also indirect costs associated with alcoholism. These include healthcare costs, lost productivity, criminal justice expenses, and social services. Alcohol consumption is a risk factor for numerous chronic diseases and conditions, including cancer, psychiatric conditions, cardiovascular disease, and digestive issues. It also increases the risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. The estimated annual cost of alcohol-related healthcare in the United States is $28 billion. Additionally, alcohol-related violence and intentional injuries contribute to healthcare costs, with an estimated annual cost to the criminal justice system of $25 billion.
Alcohol abuse can also lead to legal issues, such as DUIs or public disturbances, which can result in additional financial burdens. The fees associated with a DUI can include bail, attorney's fees, court fines, court-mandated classes, and increased insurance rates. A first-time DUI offense can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000. Furthermore, alcoholism can impact an individual's ability to work, resulting in lost wages or even job loss, which can create financial strain for both the individual and their loved ones.
The financial costs of alcoholism can be significant, and seeking treatment can be expensive. However, many insurance plans cover addiction treatment, which can help alleviate some of the financial burdens. Additionally, sobriety can lead to long-term financial savings by eliminating the costs associated with alcohol purchase and its indirect expenses.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcohol use disorder impacts people from all walks of life. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, almost 15 million people over the age of 12 in the US have an alcohol use disorder. This equates to 10.2% of people aged 12 and older.
12.1% of children aged 17 and under live with at least one parent with alcohol use disorder. This equates to 7.5 million children.
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, and Arkansas all have high rates of alcohol-related deaths. For example, Alabama averages one death from excessive alcohol use for every 2,275 people aged 18 and older, while Alaska has the second-highest number of alcohol-related deaths per capita.
It is estimated that less than 10% of people with alcohol use disorder receive treatment.
Alcohol use disorder not only impacts the individual but also their loved ones, communities, and the nation as a whole. It can lead to child deaths, fetal alcohol syndrome, and increased risk of sexual assault and unprotected sex for women.
