Am I An Alcoholic? Signs, Symptoms, And Treatment Options
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Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical disorder typically characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences. Individuals concerned about their alcohol consumption or drinking habits may benefit from understanding the signs and symptoms of this disorder. This can allow for early intervention and treatment while reducing the potential impacts on mental and physical health.
Support for individuals experiencing AUD or for those who are concerned about the consequences of developing alcohol use disorder is multidimensional, often including mindfulness strategies, medical treatment, and mental health support. Individuals experiencing AUD may benefit from connecting with a mental health professional. In this article, we will examine the signs and symptoms of excessive drinking and explore treatment options.
What is alcohol use disorder?
Alcohol use disorder, formerly known as alcohol abuse (this term is no longer supported in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition or DSM-5), refers to a medical condition in which a person finds it difficult to reduce their alcohol intake. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can include different types of excessive alcohol use, including the following:
- Binge drinking: Drinking five or more drinks in one sitting for men or four or more drinks in one sitting for women is generally considered binge drinking.
- Heavy drinking: Drinking more than eight drinks a week for women or more than 15 for men is usually considered heavy drinking, and it can elevate health risks and the probability of developing alcohol dependence.
- Drinking while pregnant: Consuming any alcohol while pregnant is considered excessive and can increase the risk of fetal health problems, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Individuals with alcohol use disorder may develop cravings that can make it challenging to stop drinking. Additionally, they may develop a dependence on alcohol, which can lead to alcohol withdrawal symptoms that impact a person’s overall health. AUD can negatively impact a person’s mental and physical health and may also affect their daily life at school or work, as well as their relationships.
Risk factors for developing alcohol use disorder
People from different backgrounds and walks of life may develop AUD. One common risk factor of AUD is genetics. Individuals with family members who have experienced alcohol use disorder usually have a higher risk of developing alcohol dependence themselves. Some studies estimate that up to 50% of the risk of developing AUD is genetically linked.
While genetics may play a key role in developing AUD, other factors can also increase the risk of developing this disorder.
- Trauma and stress: Unresolved trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic stress can increase the risk of using alcohol as a coping mechanism in an effort to find relief.
- Early alcohol use: Individuals who use alcohol early in life may be more likely to develop alcohol use disorder later in life.
- Comorbid mental health conditions: Mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and other disorders, may increase the risk of AUD, as a person may choose to self-medicate using alcohol.
- Social and environmental factors: Individuals living in a social environment where alcohol use and drinking are part of daily life may be more likely to develop AUD. This can include easy access to alcohol at home, school, or in the community.
- Personality and behavioral traits: Personality traits like impulsivity and emotional dysregulation may elevate the risk of developing AUD.
Signs and symptoms of alcohol use disorder
Physical and withdrawal symptoms of heavy drinking
A person living with AUD may experience several physical symptoms, which can include an increase in tolerance while drinking. As a person drinks more, their body may require more alcohol to achieve the same effect. Additionally, a person living with AUD may experience blackouts (periods of memory loss) while drinking.
Over time, as a person’s alcohol tolerance grows, they may experience withdrawal symptoms if they try to stop drinking. Withdrawal symptoms are the body’s response to the absence of alcohol. Common symptoms can include the following:
- Shaking or tremors
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Insomnia
- Seizures (in severe cases)
Behavioral signs and symptoms
In addition to physical signs and symptoms, a person living with AUD may also experience behavioral changes or symptoms. One common behavioral sign is when a person drinks more or for longer than they intended, or if they spend a lot of time drinking or thinking about drinking throughout the day. A person living with alcohol use disorder may unsuccessfully attempt to cut down on drinking.
Psychological and social symptoms
Alcohol use disorder often involves psychological signs and symptoms. These can include using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. In some cases, alcohol and mental health conditions may interact in a positive feedback loop or vicious cycle in which alcohol exacerbates the symptoms of a mental health condition, leading the person to consume more alcohol for relief and further worsening mental health symptoms.
There may also be social symptoms for individuals experiencing AUD. Excessive alcohol use can contribute to conflicts with family, friends, and coworkers. A person living with AUD may neglect their work or home responsibilities, which can negatively impact their interpersonal relationships and may lead to job loss and other financial impacts.
Physical and mental health impacts of heavy drinking
Excessive alcohol use can cause several physical and mental health impacts. These may occur over time with heavy alcohol use and can become life-threatening if not addressed.
Physical health impacts of alcohol use disorder
One of the main long-term impacts of heavy drinking is liver damage. Individuals who drink heavily may be diagnosed with fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Over time, this can lead to liver failure and the need for a transplant. Below are several other physical impacts of AUD:
- Heart problems: Excessive alcohol use may lead to elevated blood pressure and irregular heart rate. This may lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Digestive system challenges: Alcohol can damage parts of the digestive system and may cause inflammation of the stomach lining, as well as ulcers, pancreatitis, and an increased risk of esophageal and gastrointestinal cancers.
- Brain and nervous system damage: Individuals who live with AUD may experience slower brain function, poor coordination, and memory issues. They may also experience long-term cognitive decline and nerve damage.
- Immune system suppression: Heavy drinking can suppress the body’s ability to fight infection and disease, which can elevate the risk of developing illnesses.
Mental health implications
In addition to physical health impacts, heavy alcohol consumption may also have mental health implications. Excessive alcohol use may be associated with depression and anxiety symptoms as the initial calming effect of the alcohol wears off. A person who drinks heavily may also become socially isolated, opting to drink alone, which can further exacerbate depressive symptoms. In addition, alcohol use can worsen pre-existing mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and bipolar disorder, among others.
Managing withdrawal symptoms
One of the challenges of reducing or stopping a drinking habit is that heavy alcohol use may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms may be mild, such as tremors, headache, sweating, or irritability, or they may be more severe, including hallucinations, fever, seizures, or delirium tremens. It can be important to note that individuals who have a severe alcohol dependency often benefit from engaging in a medically supervised detoxification process. This can involve medications to reduce symptoms of withdrawal and a medically trained staff to increase safety.
Some people quitting alcohol may be able to manage withdrawal symptoms at home. Maintaining nutritious eating habits and ensuring hydration can be helpful. Individuals may also avoid caffeine and excessive sugar while getting as much rest as possible. In some cases, it can be helpful to have a friend or family member present for support.
Treatment options and strategies
For individuals who decide to reduce alcohol consumption or to stop drinking altogether, there are many treatment options available. These may vary depending on a person’s personality and unique relationship with alcohol. Two common treatment strategies include support groups and detoxification or rehabilitation programs.
Support groups
Support groups may be member-led or led by a professional. Within these groups, individuals can share their challenges and successes when it comes to reducing alcohol consumption. Support groups can be effective because they help individuals build connections with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
Detoxification and rehabilitation programs
Taking the initial steps to stop consuming alcohol can be difficult. Detoxification or rehabilitation programs can provide medically assisted and monitored options to stop drinking. This can help a person get over the initial hump when withdrawal symptoms may be the most impactful. Many programs also provide individuals with strategies to continue sobriety, and they often connect people with mental health resources to move forward.
Connecting with a mental health professional
Connecting with a mental health professional can be an important step in recovering from alcohol use disorder. A licensed therapist can provide support and strategies to reduce alcohol consumption, and they may help clients address the root of their excessive drinking habits.
Attending in-person therapy sessions at a brick-and-mortar office can be inaccessible or uncomfortable for some people. However, online therapy sessions can take place from any location with an internet connection and a personal device. This means that you can get the support that you deserve from a place where you are comfortable and at a time that suits your schedule.
Online therapy can be an effective way for individuals to reduce or manage alcohol consumption while improving their overall mental health and well-being. Seeking professional support in navigating your relationship with alcohol can empower you to make healthy changes, enhance your interpersonal relationships, and achieve your goals.
Takeaway
What qualifies as an alcoholic?
Alcoholism is more formally referred to as alcohol use disorder. This disorder has specific diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). In general, having at least two of the following symptoms indicates that alcohol use disorder is present, although only a licensed professional can provide a diagnosis.
- Drinking more or for longer than intended
- Wanting to cut down or stop drinking but being unable to
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Wanting to drink so badly that it’s the only thing you can think about
- Engaging in drinking that interferes with responsibilities at home, school, work, or in relationships
- Continuing to drink even when it negatively affects your relationships
- Giving up on activities you previously enjoyed in order to drink
- Getting into more than one risky situation during or after drinking (having unprotected sex, driving under the influence, misusing prescription opioids or other substances, etc.)
- Continuing to drink even if it contributes to depression or anxiety symptoms or physical health problems
- Having to drink much more than you used to in order to get the same effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol wear off
What are the seven personality traits of an alcoholic?
Although updated evidence may be needed, older research suggests that individuals with alcohol use disorder tend to be more passive, impulsive, sensation-seeking, dependent, anxious, psychopathological, and depressed than those without AUD. Individual therapy is often helpful for those who are interested in changing their drinking habits.
How do you confirm alcoholism?
While you may be able to find an unofficial self-assessment online, only a mental healthcare professional or doctor can diagnose alcohol use disorder (AUD). Not all people who engage in alcohol misuse may qualify for an official diagnosis of AUD.
Is drinking every night considered an alcoholic?
Drinking every night does not always constitute an alcohol use disorder. However, it can have negative consequences for physical health.
How long does detox from alcohol last?
Detoxing from alcohol can take different amounts of time depending on a person’s overall health and previous drinking habits. In many cases, withdrawal symptoms subside in a week or less.
What are the psychological effects of living with an alcoholic?
Living with someone who has AUD can be challenging. For some, it may contribute to or exacerbate anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as lead to interpersonal conflict and emotional distress.
What mental illness is associated with alcoholism?
Alcohol use disorder is the clinical term for this mental illness. Various long-term health risks are associated with AUD, from high blood pressure to liver disease, digestive problems, and chronic diseases.
How long does it take for the brain to recover from alcohol?
Research suggests that, thanks to the brain’s plasticity, “at least some AUD-induced brain changes—and the changes in thinking, feeling, and behaving that accompany them—can improve and possibly reverse with months of abstinence.” However, an exact timeline is not known and likely varies from person to person.
What are the red flags in a relationship with an alcoholic?
If you’re in a relationship with someone and suspect they may have AUD, the diagnostic criteria listed above may help you understand the severity of their drinking habits (although only a licensed professional can make an official diagnosis). However, even if your loved one does not have AUD, warning signs of binge drinking may still be present. Male binge drinkers generally have five or more drinks in one sitting, while females have at least four drinks in one sitting. In addition, pregnant women are generally advised not to drink alcohol, so if you are in a relationship with a pregnant woman who is consuming alcohol, that may be a cause for concern.
How do you quit an alcohol addiction?
There are various treatment programs that can help you address alcohol use disorder (commonly referred to as alcohol addiction or alcoholism) in a supportive environment. Some individuals may require medical care as they detox from alcohol, while others may find therapy and groups like Alcoholics Anonymous helpful. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services may provide further information about local resources. In addition, over time, developing healthy habits can create some of the same pleasurable effects you may experience when you drink alcohol.
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