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Alcohol Abuse Info




About Alcohol Abuse

The phrase “alcohol abuse” is often considered synonymous with “alcoholism”. It’s an inaccurate and dangerous misconception that causes people to overlook important signs of a preventable addiction.

Webster’s defines alcoholism as “a chronic disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction.” The key part of this definition is the phrase “dependence or addiction”; it is the primary difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism.

The actions of an alcohol abuser and an alcoholic may look very similar. Both may drink to calm their nerves. Both will drink to excess, or binge. Both are likely to have legal, vocational or relational issues caused by their drinking. But an alcoholic has such strong cravings that he feels like he can’t control himself.

An alcoholic will also experience withdrawal symptoms if he stops drinking.

Knowing these differences is important. Someone who’s abusing alcohol can get help before she develops dependence and finds herself battling a life-long addiction.

Here are some of the other warning signs which indicate someone is abusing alcohol but may not have developed an addiction.

  • Using alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, depression, anxiety or other emotional issues.
  • Using alcohol as an “escape”, so the person doesn’t have to deal with a difficult situation.
  • Choosing social events based on whether alcohol will be available.
  • Hiding, downplaying, or lying about the amount of alcohol he drinks.
  • Getting defensive when questioned or confronted about her drinking.

These are not all of the signs, but are common ones that can help determine if someone is abusing alcohol. Intervention at this stage is crucial. By intervening now, you can prevent a loved one’s abuse from become an addiction, and help them avoid a life-long battle of recovery.

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