Alcohol

Alcoholism is when an individual cannot control their consumption of alcohol.1 It is a disease that frequently reoccurs and is a long-term battle.2 Fortunately, this war can be won.

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a complex disease with many different components. Some researchers have found that individuals with AUD may be more susceptible to engaging in unhealthy alcohol use because of low levels of dopamine in their brains.

How Addictive is Alcohol?

Approximately one-third of Americans will have a problem with alcohol at some time in their life.4 Alcohol remains the most commonly misused drug in the United States. Part of the problem occurs because alcohol affects your brain and can become addictive over time.

Who is at Risk for Alcohol Addiction?

Multiple factors may influence the development of alcoholism, such as:

• Biological considerations: A relationship has been shown to exist between alcoholism and genetic factors.
• Early drinking: People who begin drinking or misusing any other substance, including legal over-the-counter alcohol alternatives, at an early age are more likely to develop AUD.
• Cultural and environmental factors: Drinking is influenced by parents, friends, and other relatives.
• Mental health disorders: Depression, anxiety, and other emotional problems frequently coexist with alcoholism. Sometimes, it is difficult to determine which disorder came first.
• Gender: Men are more predisposed to alcoholism than women.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

The signs of alcoholism or AUD are mild, moderate, or severe, so the picture can vary from person to person.

You may be experiencing AUD if you exhibit the following:

• An inability to control how much alcohol you consume
• An inability to control cravings for alcohol
• Alcohol consumption that affects work or school
• Drinking that adversely affects your relationships
• Frequent mood changes or loss of temper
• Unsuccessful attempts at sobriety
• Drinking in unsafe situations such as before driving or operating dangerous equipment
• Having withdrawal symptoms when you’re not drinking

Stages of Alcoholism

AUD has been classified into various stages, so this may help you recognize the severity of the disorder you are experiencing. Some overlap may occur in these stages since the experience does not always follow textbook definitions.