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Alcohol Addiction Problems

Alcohol addiction problems affect one in 12 people, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). While those with a family history of alcoholism are at greater risk, alcohol dependence is diagnosed in people from every ethnic and socioeconomic group. Untreated, the problem has repercussions that affect one's health, relationships, career and quality of life. Alcoholism cannot be cured, but effective treatment is available.

  1. Dependence vs. Abuse

    • Alcohol dependence is a disease characterized by cravings for alcohol, inability to control the amount of alcohol consumed, withdrawal symptoms and increased tolerance to the effects of alcohol. However, some people who are not alcoholics still have problems related to drinking; this is called alcohol abuse. The difference is the ability to control when and how much alcohol is consumed. Criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol dependence are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-IV.

    Statistics

    • The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) estimates that 17.6 million Americans have alcohol addiction problems. People who started drinking at a young age are more likely to develop problems in their lifetime. More women than men abuse alcohol, and young people (18 to 29) are more likely to abuse alcohol than those over 65.

    Health Concerns

    • Alcohol addiction problems contribute to secondary health concerns, including stroke and heart and liver disease. Health problems related to drinking develop more quickly in women than in men, according to the NIAAA, and pregnant women who drink alcohol put their unborn children at risk. Older people who drink may be affected more significantly even by small amounts of alcohol due to physiological changes that impact the way alcohol is metabolized.

    Effect on Quality of Life

    • Alcohol consumption affects judgment and impairs coordination. Even occasional abuse of alcohol is correlated with a greater incidence of car accidents, violence and domestic abuse. People with alcohol addiction problems often say and do things while under the influence that later cause remorse and regret. Career is often negatively impacted as well, especially when frequent hangovers cause missed days of work or decreased productivity.

    Effect on Family and Friends

    • Those who are close to an alcoholic often attempt to minimize the consequences caused by alcohol addiction problems. This protective behavior, over time, enables the drinker to continue drinking and causes significant emotional distress for family members and friends. People whose lives are touched by someone with alcohol addiction problems are encouraged to confront the drinker, establish healthy boundaries and seek help from a mental health provider or support group.

    When to Get Help

    • An alcohol abuse problem may exist if a person wonders if they should drink less, is criticized for drinking too much, feels bad about drinking, or needs a drink first thing in the morning to face the day or to reduce hangover symptoms. Your physician may recommend medication to help treat the problem. Treatment through a certified addictions counselor or rehabilitation facility may be necessary. Participation through Alcoholics Anonymous also has proven effective in treating alcohol addiction problems.

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