Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Addiction
Two everyday terms that are commonly associated with alcohol use are Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Addiction – so is there a difference? There IS a difference and neither should be ignored.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
Social drinking takes on a different meaning to various people, cultures and religions. Therefore alcohol abuse tends to be a broad category with a definition that may not be shared by any two people. For example, a person involved in law can believe that abuse is ILLEGAL use of a substance (including alcohol) whereas many religions would believe that ANY use of alcohol would be abuse. Signs of abuse start when alcohol becomes too much of a main focus. This is when social drinking becomes unhealthy and even dangerous. Other signs of abuse are:
- when work or classes are being missed due to hangovers or intoxication
- illegal situations start to happen such as driving while drunk (intoxicated)
- when alcohol starts to get used for the wrong reasons, such as an escape or avoidance
- binge drinking
- blacking out
Alcohol abuse can cause drastic personality changes which can destroy relationships with partners, friends and family. Someone who abuses will continue to drink even though they know their drinking is causing problems. Abuse can also lead to addiction.
What is Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction is also be called alcoholism or alcohol dependence. Increased dependence (both mental and physical) leads to addiction. When does abuse turn into addiction? Early signs are when they will start hiding their alcohol use and will often times will drink alone. Also, when they will also start withdrawing from their usual activities to be able to drink. Alcoholism is a disease and an addiction with symptoms and a known course that can be predicted. Here are some of the more common symptoms of alcoholism:
- Craving (mental dependence): A strong need or craving to drink or need to drink to feel normal.
- Loss of Control: Can’t control the amount of alcohol they drink.
- Tolerance: need to drink more to get the same effect.
- Withdrawal (physical dependence): sweating, nausea, tremors, anxiety – symptoms of withdrawal
Alcoholics will continue to drink regardless of health issues, family or legal problems. Alcoholism is a long-term chronic disease that can be affected by stress, social issues, emotional health, genetic disposition, age and gender.
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