Alcoholism, also known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It involves a physical and emotional dependence on alcohol, leading to an inability to control drinking despite negative consequences. In this post, we explore the nature of alcoholism, its signs, symptoms, and how to identify when alcohol use becomes a serious issue.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism, clinically referred to as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to regulate or stop drinking due to both a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. As defined by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), AUD is not simply a habit, but a diagnosable medical condition that can range from mild to severe based on an individual’s symptoms and drinking behaviors .

Alcoholism impacts nearly every facet of an individual’s life—personal, social, and professional. It is a disease that can develop over time, with individuals initially drinking in moderation or socially, but gradually losing control over their alcohol consumption. Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial to recognizing when alcohol use becomes problematic and potentially life-threatening.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

Recognizing the signs of Alcohol Use Disorder is key to early intervention and treatment. While casual drinking or occasional overindulgence doesn’t necessarily signal a problem, a consistent pattern of excessive drinking coupled with an inability to control alcohol intake often points to alcoholism.

Here are the common signs and symptoms:

1. Drinking More or Longer than Intended
   One of the earliest signs of alcoholism is the inability to stick to self-imposed limits. Individuals with AUD often find themselves drinking more alcohol or for longer periods than they initially intended. This lack of control is a hallmark symptom of addiction.

2. Inability to Cut Down or Stop Drinking Despite Wanting To
   Many people with AUD express a desire to reduce or stop drinking altogether but are unable to do so. Despite recognizing the negative impacts alcohol may have on their health, relationships, or work, they often feel powerless to make meaningful changes .

3. Strong Cravings for Alcohol
   Physical and emotional cravings for alcohol are another symptom of AUD. These cravings are often so intense that individuals feel compelled to drink, sometimes at inappropriate times or places. The cravings can dominate their thoughts, making it difficult to focus on other responsibilities.

4. Drinking Despite Negative Consequences
   People with alcoholism may continue drinking even when it causes problems in their personal, social, or professional lives. Relationships may deteriorate, job performance may decline, and individuals might experience social isolation. Despite these consequences, the urge to drink overrides their capacity to stop.

5. Tolerance Development
   Over time, individuals with alcoholism develop a tolerance to alcohol, meaning they need larger quantities to achieve the same effect. This is a dangerous cycle, as it often leads to drinking even more, further deepening the dependence .

6. Withdrawal Symptoms When Not Drinking
   Withdrawal symptoms are a critical sign of alcohol dependence. When someone with AUD stops drinking, they may experience physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, shakiness, nausea, sweating, and even seizures in severe cases . These symptoms often drive individuals to start drinking again in order to alleviate the discomfort.

Why Alcoholism is a Chronic Disease

Like other chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, Alcohol Use Disorder is a long-term condition that often requires ongoing treatment and management. AUD alters the brain’s reward system, making it difficult for individuals to break free from the cycle of drinking without external support. The brain becomes rewired to associate alcohol with pleasure and stress relief, reinforcing the desire to drink and perpetuating the addiction.

Who is at Risk for Alcoholism?

Alcoholism doesn’t discriminate; it can affect people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, there are several factors that may increase the risk of developing AUD, including:

• Genetics: A family history of alcoholism can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder.

• Mental Health Disorders: People with conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD may turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism, increasing their risk for AUD.

• Environmental Factors: Stressful life circumstances, such as job loss or trauma, can trigger excessive drinking.

• Early Drinking: Starting to drink at a young age can increase the likelihood of developing alcohol dependence later in life .

Alcoholism is a serious and complex disease, but it is also treatable. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of AUD is the first step toward recovery. For those who struggle with alcohol dependence, seeking help through medical intervention, therapy, and support groups is essential. Early intervention can prevent the long-term physical, emotional, and social consequences of alcoholism.

The Road to Recovery: Seeking Help

Recognizing that alcoholism is a chronic disease is the first step toward recovery. But beyond recognition, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare provider, an addiction specialist, or a trained therapist who understands the complexities of AUD. Treatments often include counseling, medical intervention, support groups, and ongoing monitoring to help individuals stay on the path to sobriety.

I’ve been working with individuals who struggle with alcoholism and the loved ones who support them since 2010. In my work, I’ve seen firsthand how devastating alcoholism can be to individuals and families, but I’ve also witnessed how lives can be transformed with the right support and intervention. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of Alcohol Use Disorder, it’s crucial to take action early. Seeking guidance from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist can make all the difference. I am here to help should you need it.

Through therapy, coaching, and a compassionate approach, I’ve helped many people regain control of their lives, rebuild their relationships, and find healthier coping mechanisms. Don’t wait until the effects of alcohol dependence become overwhelming. Help is available, and recovery is possible.

References:

1. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2021). Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison Between DSM-IV and DSM-5. [NIAAA].

2. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcoholism) – Symptoms and Causes.

3. American Psychiatric Association. (2020). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).

4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2022). Alcohol Use Disorder and Withdrawal.

5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Excessive Alcohol Use and Risks to Health.