About Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse
How Does Alcohol Abuse Differ From Alcoholism?
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an
extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking,
or physical dependence. Alcohol abuse is defined as a pattern of drinking
that results in one or more of the following situations within a 12-month
period:
• Inability to meet major work, school, or
home responsibilities;
• Drinking in situations that are physically
dangerous, such as while driving a car or operating
machinery;
• Having recurring alcohol-related legal problems,
such as being arrested for driving under the influence
of alcohol or for physically hurting someone while
drunk; and
• Continued drinking despite having ongoing
relationship problems that are caused or worsened
by the drinking.
Although alcohol abuse is fundamentally different from alcoholism, many
effects of alcohol abuse are also experienced by alcoholics.
What Are the Signs of an Alcohol Problem?
How can you tell whether you may have a drinking problem? Answering
the following four questions can help you find out:
• Have you ever felt you should cut down on
your drinking?
• Have people annoyed you by criticizing your
drinking?
• Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your
drinking?
• Have you ever had a drink first thing in
the morning (as an “eye opener”) to steady
your nerves or get rid of a hangover?
One “yes” answer suggests a possible alcohol problem. If
you answered “yes” to more than one question, it is highly
likely that a problem exists. In either case, it is important that you
see your doctor or other health care provider right away to discuss your
answers to these questions. He or she can help you determine whether
you have a drinking problem and, if so, recommend the best course of
action.
Even if you answered “no” to all of the above questions,
if you encounter drinking-related problems with your job, relationships,
health, or the law, you should seek professional help. The effects of
alcohol abuse can be extremely serious—even fatal—both to
you and to others.
Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism |
