The Truth About Alcoholism

Alcoholism (now called Alcohol Use Disorder) is diagnosed when patients are unable to stop drinking despite consequences stemming from alcohol use like organ damage, legal issues, job loss or relationship conflict. Alcoholism is not defined by how much or how often someone drinks.

Alcoholism Diagnostic Questions

The quiz below stems from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association.

Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcoholism

As of 2013, both alcohol abuse and alcoholism are classified as “Alcohol Use Disorder”.

Alcohol Abuse vs Dependence

• Alcohol dependence – the brain requires alcohol to function. Serious withdrawal symptoms start if alcohol is stopped. Usually means daily drinking and an alcoholism diagnosis.
• Alcohol Abuse – Not all who abuse alcohol are dependent. For example, someone who binge drinks only on weekends struggles with alcohol abuse but is not alcohol dependent.

Alcoholism is a disease of the brain. There is not one singular cause, but many factors that contribute to the development of addictions.

The most important risk factors for alcoholism are:

• Genetics: 40-60% of the cause of alcoholism is attributed to genetics. Specific genes have been identified, including alcoholism metabolizers ADH1B and ALDH2 that have the strongest correlation.
• Social: Family and cultural views on alcohol play a role, since the earlier drinking is started, the more likely alcoholism is to develop.
• Mental Health: People with trauma, high stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions are more vulnerable to developing alcoholism.

Every 10 seconds, someone dies from alcohol worldwide.

Drinking excessive alcohol increases the risk for more than 200 health conditions, including cancers of the mouth, esophagus, pharynx, larynx, liver and breast.

Deaths Attributable to Alcohol Consumption

There aren’t many physical warning signs before damage from alcoholism becomes permanent. Prior to a serious diagnosis, much of the damage is reversible. Stopping drinking will always improve the outcome.

See also: Wet Brain and Early Signs of Liver Damage

Alcoholism Demographics

Alcoholism impacts everyone. In fact, 70% of American adults drank alcohol in the last year.

More Alcoholism Statistics

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has over 2 million members.

1 in 4 people binge drank alcohol in the last 30 days.

10% of children live with a parent with alcohol problems.

There is currently no cure for alcoholism, but the disease can be successfully treated. Living in remission from alcoholism is called addiction recovery.

Recommended treatment timeline:

• Medical Detox (3-10 days): Since cold-turkey alcohol withdrawal can be deadly, vitals and well-being are monitored by a combination of medical professionals to avoid complications.
• Inpatient Rehab (~30 days): Between therapy sessions and medical support, there’s time for reflection and building a support network while away from triggers and temptation.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (45+ days): Addresses the same issues as inpatient rehab but while you live at home without 24/7 supervision.
• Sober living: A house specifically for those coming from rehab to give the ideal blend between treatment and the “real world.”

Three most proven types of therapies for alcoholism:

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focused on identifying and changing thoughts and emotions to change your behaviour using reasoning.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focused on changing behavior patterns, as opposed to thinking or talking through issues.
3. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT): Focused on ways to find peace in a current moment rather than negative thinking about the past or future.

Medication for Alcoholism

The following medications are FDA-approved specifically for alcoholism:

• Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is almost always the first choice, and can be given in the form of a monthly shot to ensure compliance.
• Acamprosate (Campral) reduces symptoms of long-lasting withdrawal and cravings, such as insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and generally feeling unwell. It must be taken three times a day.
• Disulfiram (Antabuse) interferes with the body’s ability to absorb alcohol. Instead of feeling “good”, alcohol will cause unpleasant reactions such as nausea and possibly be dangerous. Those who have shown the ability to stay sober for an extended period with recent relapse are ideal candidates.
• Topiramate (Topamax, Qudexy) is an FDA-approved medication for seizures used “off label” to also reduce alcohol cravings due to initial promising research.

Alcoholism Treatment Centers

Highlighted here are JourneyPure alcohol treatment centers in Tennessee and Kentucky that treat people from across the south and midwest.

Additional Locations