A Guide to Recognizing and Treating Alcoholism

Alcoholism, now clinically referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD), affects millions of people in the U.S. alone including 9.1% of females aged 12 and older. It's more than just a bad habit or occasional overindulgence; AUD is a chronic brain disorder that makes it difficult to control drinking despite harmful consequences to health, relationships, and daily life.

The good news? There are evidence-based treatments that help people recover and ways you can support someone navigating the journey.

What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?

AUD is a medical condition characterized by the inability to stop or control alcohol use, even when it negatively impacts your life. It’s not a moral failure or a lack of willpower it's a diagnosable brain disorder.

Healthcare providers use criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to determine severity:

• Mild: 2–3 symptoms

• Moderate: 4–5 symptoms

• Severe: 6 or more symptoms

Common signs include:

• Drinking more than intended

• Failed attempts to cut back

• Cravings or obsessive thoughts about drinking

• Neglecting work, school, or home responsibilities

• Giving up important activities in favor of drinking

• Developing a tolerance or experiencing withdrawal

When Does Drinking Become a Problem?

Not all alcohol use indicates a disorder. But binge drinking defined as 4 drinks for women or 5 for men within two hours and heavy alcohol use (more than 7 drinks a week for women, 14 for men) can significantly raise the risk of developing AUD.

If alcohol use starts interfering with your physical health, emotional wellbeing, or relationships or if you notice withdrawal symptoms when stopping these are strong indicators of a problem.

Risk Factors to Be Aware Of

While anyone can develop AUD, certain factors increase risk:

• Starting young: Drinking before age 18 raises the risk of developing AUD in adulthood.

• Family history: About 50% of the risk is genetic. Growing up in a household where alcohol is misused also plays a role.

• Mental health: Conditions like anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and depression often coexist with AUD.

• Sex: Men are more likely to be diagnosed, but alcohol can have more severe health effects on women, including higher risk for liver disease and certain cancers.

Physical and Emotional Impact of AUD

Chronic alcohol misuse doesn’t only harm the liver. It’s been linked to:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Cognitive decline and dementia

• Several types of cancer

• Sleep disorders and depression

• Memory loss and emotional instability

It also affects those around the individual especially children, who may face emotional neglect, abuse, or long-term trauma. In fact, studies show that children of people with AUD often report higher rates of anxiety, communication struggles, and substance use later in life.

How to Treat Alcohol Use Disorder

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for AUD, but several effective treatments exist. Recovery can take place in outpatient settings, inpatient rehab, or through a combination of therapies.

1. Medical Support

Start by talking to a primary care provider. They can evaluate the severity of AUD, monitor withdrawal symptoms, and refer you to specialists. For moderate to severe cases, detox may need to happen under medical supervision.

2. Medications

Three FDA-approved medications may help reduce cravings or prevent relapse:

• Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol

• Acamprosate: Helps stabilize brain chemistry

• Disulfiram: Causes unpleasant effects when drinking

3. Behavioral Therapies

Working with a therapist trained in addiction support can provide strategies to:

• Identify and avoid triggers

• Build coping skills

• Improve self-esteem

• Set realistic recovery goals

Common therapy approaches include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Motivational enhancement therapy

• Family or couples therapy

4. Support Groups

Social connection is crucial for recovery. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other 12-step programs offer peer support, structure, and accountability. Many communities offer both in-person and online meetings.

Supporting a Loved One in Recovery

If someone close to you is struggling with alcoholism, know that your role can be impactful but their recovery is ultimately their responsibility. Here are ways to help:

• Be present without judgment: Offer support, not shame.

• Practice patience: Relapse is common and doesn’t mean failure.

• Acknowledge progress: Celebrate even small steps forward.

• Care for yourself: Consider therapy or support groups for family and friends of people with AUD.

Recovery Is Possible

While alcohol use disorder can be overwhelming, it’s treatable. Whether you're personally struggling or supporting someone who is, taking the first step toward treatment is an act of strength.

Modern approaches that combine medical, psychological, and social support provide a hopeful path forward no matter where you’re starting.

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