The Four Stages of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a disease marked by physical and emotional symptoms which go far beyond heavy drinking, and like many diseases it progresses through definite stages. Each stage is accompanied by specific symptoms which help define how far the disease has progressed. Regardless of which stage the alcoholic has reached, he cannot overcome the disease until he acknowledges its power over him and resolves to quit. In the later stages, this may require significantly more than a strong will.

Causes

• The causes of alcoholism vary with the individual. Some are driven to drink by psychological traumas in their life or from overwhelming stress at home or at work. Some are encouraged to drink from a tolerant atmosphere, whether it's frat house parties or drinks at a social club. Some alcoholics have a biological proclivity to drink, determined solely by genetic factors. And many alcoholics embody a combination of these factors, any or all of which may lead to the first stage of the condition.

Stage One

• The first stage arises when the alcoholic starts drinking in circumstances other than social settings: as a means of relieving stress, for example, or to calm nerves before an important meeting. It also entails a significant increase in the amount of alcohol consumed, along with an increase in tolerance to alcohol. In many cases, the alcoholic's ability to imbibe becomes a source of pride, accompanied by boasting and active searching for drinking opportunities.

Stage Two

• The second stage of alcoholism is marked by an increased need to drink. Alcoholic beverages appear earlier and earlier in the day, and raised tolerance levels mean that the alcoholic consumes liquor out of increasing dependence rather than just a need to relieve tension. Signs of guilt may arise as well, marked by efforts to stop drinking. The increase in alcohol consumed translates to increased physical effects during the second stage, including blackouts, hangovers and occasional loss of control over one's drinking.

Stage Three

• Stage three shows the first real signs that the alcoholic has lost control of his drinking. One drink turns to many with distressing ease, and the alcoholic begins adopting evasive behavior such as drinking in secret and inventing elaborate lies to cover it up. Drinking also starts to spill over into work and home life, as previous important commitments fall by the wayside. In many cases, the alcoholic's physical appearance begins to deteriorate as well.

Stage Four

• By the time the alcoholic reaches the fourth stage of alcoholism, he can no longer control his drinking at all. He often goes on lengthy drinking sprees lasting for days, which usually precludes the ability to hold down any kind of a job. Physical symptoms such as shakiness and hallucinations may appear, and drinking becomes an all-consuming obsession dominating the alcoholic's life.