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How Are Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Dependency Alike?

Alcoholism is considered a progressive disease and, as such, has different phases. Alcohol abuse and dependency are different levels of habitual alcohol use.

  1. Alcohol Abuse Defined

    • Alcohol abuse is defined as the harmful use of alcohol. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders describes alcohol abusers as those who continue to drink despite social, interpersonal and legal problems, as well as physical and mental damage to the abuser or to others as a result of excessive alcohol consumption.

    Alcohol Dependency - The Next Level of Alcoholism

    • Alcohol dependency has the same characteristics as alcohol abuse with additional specifications.

      * The alcohol dependent will select one type or brand of alcohol to abuse rather than a variety.

      * The individual who is classified as alcohol dependent shows exclusivity in terms of social involvement and will socialize only when alcohol consumption is included.

      * It is a sign of alcohol dependence when the abuser must increase his or her alcohol consumption in order to achieve the previous effect.

      * Withdrawal symptoms are another sign of alcohol dependency. The alcohol dependent becomes physically symptomatic after refraining from drinking for even a short period. As a result, someone who is dependent on alcohol will drink to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

      * The alcohol dependent is generally aware that they have a problem with alcohol, whether they openly admit it or not.

      * Someone who is dependent on alcohol will perpetually attempt to cease drinking, but without professional intervention is almost always unsuccessful.

    Both Disorders Are Detrimental and Should Be Taken Seriously

    • Alcohol abuse is thought to be treatable and is often experienced by the young who are experimenting with alcohol. Many times alcohol abuse can be successfully addressed with counseling and education.

      Alcohol dependency is considered a more difficult level of disorder to treat and requires professional counseling and possibly medical intervention.

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