Abuse Vs. Alcohol Addiction

Many people refer to alcoholism when in fact they mean alcohol abuse. Though connected, the two terms differ in several key points. Understanding them can help clarify the issues surrounding alcohol use and help those close to an alcoholic or abuser make informed choices.

Alcohol Abuse

• Alcohol abuse is defined as a pattern of drinking to excess. It differs from alcoholism in that an abuser may still have control over whether he chooses to drink or not.

Alcoholism

• Alcoholism entails physical dependence upon alcohol, resulting in cravings and withdrawal symptoms when a person doesn't receive any alcohol.

Interconnection

• Alcohol abuse can lead to alcoholism if it continues unchecked. Conversely, some alcoholics may not be abusers if they no longer drink, but their alcoholism remains with them regardless.

Four Stages

• Alcoholics progress through four distinct phases of alcohol abuse. During the first two, they may retain control of their actions and can choose to stop drinking in some cases. During the last two stages, they fully lose control, sliding from abuse to alcoholism.

Changing

• Stopping alcohol abuse is often a matter of changing habits such as removing the social expectation of drinking and getting the abuser to lay off the liquor. Alcoholism requires medical treatment and active counseling, and remains with the patient for the rest of his life.