Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a disorder that can have a serious impact on a person’s life. It’s defined as a pattern of alcohol consumption which interferes with the ability to perform daily activities or engage in social activities. AUD typically includes maladaptive behaviors, significant impairment in psychological functioning, and physical health consequences. It can cause a person to drink alcohol in increasing amounts or in situations which are dangerous. It can also affect a person’s relationships and work performance.
The condition is made up of two components, an alcohol dependence component and an alcohol abuse component. Alcohol dependence has been defined by the World Health Organization as “a syndrome characterized by a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms that indicate a person has impaired control of his/her use of alcohol despite known risks to health and wellbeing”. Common signs of alcohol dependence include drinking larger amounts of alcohol than intended, drinking despite interpersonal problems caused by alcohol use, and experiences of withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
Alcohol abuse is characterized by a pattern of risky drinking over time that leads to physical, psychological, or social problems. Signs of this include drinking in risky situations such as while driving, inability to stop drinking, and continued engagement in alcohol-related activities despite serious consequences.
People with alcoholism tend to develop cravings for alcohol (the urge to drink), and they can struggle to stop drinking despite experiencing problems due to their drinking. This condition can cause serious and sometimes devastating life issues, such as bankruptcies, divorces, losing a job, and even homelessness.
Treatment for alcohol use disorder typically includes abstinence from alcohol, counseling and psychotherapy, as well as medications such as naltrexone and acamprosate to help reduce cravings and, in some cases, help to limit the amount of alcohol a person can consume. Detoxification may also be necessary to help manage withdrawal symptoms and alcohol-related health issues.
Seeking help for an AUD can be difficult for a lot of people. It’s important to understand that addiction is a chronic illness and needs medical attention. The earlier someone with an alcohol use disorder seeks help, the better the outlook for long-term recovery.
When looking for help, the first step is to talk to a doctor or mental health expert. They can provide specialized guidance and advice on an individual basis and can direct individuals to the right treatment center or provide referrals to specialists that specialize in alcohol use disorders if necessary.
Friends and family can also play a vital role in helping someone with alcoholism. Showing support for that person is an important step in getting them to seek help and can be the basis for real, lasting change.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use disorder, remember that there is help available. It’s essential to take the time to understand the disorder, the risks associated with it, and available treatment options. Doing so will provide a solid foundation for improving your health and life.