Alcohol abuse is a pattern of very heavy drinking that is not characterized by the incessant craving for alcohol experienced by alcoholics or the physical dependence, or the all but total loss of control. But if the person in the abuse stage continues to drink, alcoholism is right around the corner. It is probably rare for the person in the alcohol abuse stage to avoid crossing over into alcoholism. There is also strong evidence that alcoholism is inherited.
One definition of alcohol abuse is that the drinking includes one of the following situations within one year:
- Continuing to drink in the face of relationship problems that were caused or worsened under the effects of alcohol.
- Legal problems such as assault or drunk driving.
- Drinking in situations that are physically dangerous.
- Failure to assume responsibility for work, home or school.
Alcoholism or alcohol addiction has the above characteristics plus:
- The overwhelming need or compulsion to drink.
- Alcohol has become the priority in the drinkers life.
- Physical dependence on alcohol: Withdrawal enters the picture in the form of nausea, sweating, shaking, and anxiety when the alcoholic stops drinking. These symptoms can only be relieved by more alcohol or some form of tranquilizer.
- No control: Unable to stop drinking once they have begun.
- Increase tolerance: It is necessary to drink more to achieve the same high.
Alcoholism is all about the all encompassing need for alcohol. Alcoholism is extremely powerful, which is why willpower alone is almost never enough to achieve abstinence.
Do you think you have a drinking problem? You can get help here:
http://HowIStoppedDrinking.org
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