Noah Vinter
Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a medical condition characterised by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is considered a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe. Those struggling with alcohol addiction often experience a mental obsession to consume alcohol, coupled with a physical compulsion. Many people live with anxiety, fear, or addiction without realising how much it's affecting their daily lives. If you're concerned about your drinking, it's important to understand the signs of alcohol addiction and learn where to turn for help.
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What You'll Learn
Recognise the signs of alcohol addiction and withdrawal
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterised by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is considered a brain disorder that can be mild, moderate, or severe. AUD can take over your life, causing you to drink despite the damage it does to your relationships or plan your life around your next drink.
- Craving beverages containing alcohol
- Continuing to drink alcohol even though it affects your relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues
- Drinking more than intended or for longer than intended
- Spending a lot of time obtaining and drinking alcohol or recovering from hangovers
- Trying to reduce alcohol consumption but failing to do so
- Failing to meet work or family obligations because of drinking
- Experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can occur when someone who has been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol intake. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with the most severe being life-threatening. They typically begin within six to 24 hours of stopping or decreasing heavy alcohol use and can include:
- Anxiety, nervousness, or irritability
- Excessive sweating
- Upset stomach
- Heart palpitations
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Hyperthermia (high body temperature)
- Tremors (shakiness) of hands or other body parts
- Hallucinations
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Understand the causes and risk factors of alcoholism
Alcoholism, or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a complex disease that affects the brain and can manifest as mild, moderate, or severe conditions. While heavy drinking does not necessarily indicate alcoholism, alcoholism almost always involves heavy and frequent drinking. People with alcoholism often feel that they cannot stop drinking and may need to consume more alcohol to feel satisfied.
There are various risk factors and causes that contribute to the development of alcoholism, and understanding these factors can help you recognize signs of alcohol addiction in yourself or your loved ones. Here are some key causes and risk factors:
Genetics and Family History
Genetics plays a significant role in the development of alcoholism, with hereditability accounting for approximately 60%. Studies show that individuals with a family history of AUD have a higher risk of developing the disorder themselves. Additionally, the children of alcoholics, whether biological or non-biological, are more likely to become alcoholics, especially if raised by alcoholic parents.
Mental Health Conditions
Certain mental health conditions are associated with an increased risk of developing alcoholism. These include depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Individuals with these psychiatric conditions often face comorbidities with AUD and may use alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Personality Traits
Certain personality traits can make individuals more susceptible to developing alcoholism. For example, those who are more inclined to pursue or disregard risks, or those who are less inhibited, may be more prone to heavy drinking. Additionally, individuals who associate alcohol with positive expectations or believe that drinking makes them more likable may be at higher risk.
Environmental and Social Factors
Environmental and social factors, such as family, culture, and social norms, can also influence the development of alcoholism. For example, parental drinking patterns can impact a child's likelihood of developing AUD later in life. Additionally, individuals may turn to alcohol to cope with stressful events or life changes, such as job loss, divorce, or the death of a loved one.
Drinking History
An individual's drinking history can also be a factor. Starting to drink at an early age increases the risk of developing AUD later in life. Additionally, heavy and long-term alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol dependence and increase the risk of various health complications, including cancer, alcohol-induced hepatitis, and cirrhosis of the liver.
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Identify treatment options, including therapy and medication
Treatment for alcohol problems can vary depending on the individual. It is important to find a treatment that is tailored to your needs. There are many options available, and it is worth researching what is available near you.
Therapy
There are several types of therapy that can help treat alcoholism. Psychotherapy is a classic approach where a patient talks to a trained psychologist about their problems and experiences. This can take place in a one-to-one, group, or family setting. During these sessions, a psychologist might help a patient better understand and manage their cravings and stay motivated to achieve their sobriety goals. Psychotherapy sessions can last several weeks or months, and a relationship of trust, openness, and confidentiality is established.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven method for helping with alcoholism. CBT focuses on identifying negative thoughts and behaviors and replacing them with positive thoughts and behaviors. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is another type of talk therapy that can help patients find emotional balance and embrace positive change. DBT is based on the idea that everything is connected, the world is constantly changing, and opposite elements may synthesize into a greater truth.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a popular technique for treating substance abuse disorders. MI is a brief, client-centered, semi-directive psychological treatment approach that concentrates on improving and strengthening a client’s motivations for change. MI aims to increase a client’s perspective on the importance of change.
Medication
There are currently three medications approved for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Naltrexone, Acamprosate, and Disulfiram. Naltrexone is available as a pill or injection and helps reduce the urge to drink. Acamprosate is a pill that decreases the negative symptoms that are sometimes felt during abstinence from alcohol, making abstinence easier to maintain. Disulfiram discourages drinking by causing unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed. Doctors can also prescribe medications to help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms, making the process safer and less distressing.
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Learn how to talk to a loved one about their drinking
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is considered a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe. AUD can take over one's life, causing them to drink despite the damage it does to their relationships or planning their life around their next drink.
If you are worried about a loved one's drinking, here are some ways to approach the situation:
- Educate yourself about alcohol use: Read books, look online, or ask a healthcare provider to understand alcohol overuse better. The more you know, the better you can help your loved one.
- Choose an appropriate time and place: Find a calm place where you both feel comfortable, and ensure you have plenty of time for the conversation. Avoid approaching your loved one when they are drinking, tired, or in a rush.
- Express your feelings: Try to use "I" statements to keep the focus on how their drinking affects you. For example, say, "I've noticed something recently, and I'd like if we could have a chat about it."
- Stick to the facts: Share specific behaviours that have worried you and explain your concerns for their health. Avoid using labels such as "alcoholic."
- Listen carefully: Listening is crucial in these conversations. Ask open-ended questions to encourage a dialogue and help you understand what they are going through.
- Offer support: Let them know you are there to help and that you are not judging them. Offer to accompany them to appointments or meetings with addiction counsellors.
- Prepare for resistance: They may become defensive or deny the problem. Don't take it personally, and remember that you are planting a seed for change. Have concrete next steps ready, such as local support group meetings or counsellors within their insurance network.
- Take care of yourself: Confronting a loved one about their drinking can be emotionally challenging. Stay connected with your support network, and consider joining groups like Al-Anon, which provide support for families and friends of people with drinking problems. Remember, you did not cause their drinking, and you cannot control it.
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Find support through resources, groups, or therapy
If you are concerned about your drinking habits, there are many resources, groups, and therapies that can help you.
Resources
There are several screening tests available for free that can help you better understand your drinking habits and whether they are cause for concern. These include the CAGE Alcohol Assessment, MAST Alcohol Assessment, and AUDIT Alcohol Assessment.
Groups
Alcoholics Anonymous defines alcoholism as "a physical compulsion, coupled with a mental obsession to consume alcohol," in which cravings for alcohol are always satisfied. Support groups can help you connect with others who understand your situation. Alcoholics Anonymous is one such group that can provide support and guidance.
Therapy
Behavioral therapies can help you develop skills to avoid and overcome triggers that might lead to drinking. Therapists can also help you work through potentially challenging responses and situations. If you are concerned about a loved one's drinking habits, a therapist can also help you navigate that conversation.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. Alcoholism is considered a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe. Signs of alcoholism include drinking despite the damage to relationships, planning your life around drinking, and experiencing physical issues like cravings or withdrawal symptoms.
The causes of alcoholism are not fully understood, but certain factors increase the risk of developing alcohol use disorder. These include genetics, family history of alcohol problems, mental health conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Environmental factors and trauma can also play a role in the development of AUD.
Recognizing the signs of alcoholism and seeking help early is essential. Treatment options include behavioral therapies, mutual support groups, and medications to address withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, can provide valuable connections with others facing similar struggles. It is important to remember that recovery is possible, and you don't have to go through it alone.
When approaching a conversation about a loved one's alcoholism, focus on expressing your concern for their well-being. Use "I" statements to share your feelings and how their alcohol use impacts you. Be empathetic and understanding, and avoid using stigmatizing labels like "alcoholic" or "addict." Instead, focus on specific behaviors that are troubling and suggest treatment options or professional support.
