The Difference Between Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse

A person who is abusing alcohol has a drinking problem. Misuse of alcohol, or any other addictive substance, is never recommended. Millions of Americans struggle with alcohol use disorder. A major difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction relates to an individual’s ability to cut back or cease use. Alcohol treatment centers are an invaluable resource for those who are struggling with drinking and need alcohol addiction help. 

The Difference Between Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse

Someone who has developed an alcohol addiction does not have control over how often they drink and how much they drink. They will be unable to change the amount of alcohol they drink even when it creates problems in their life and in the lives of their loved ones.  Alcohol abuse and misuse can be more of a gray area. Keeping that in mind, it is a slippery slope from alcohol misuse to developing a full-blown addiction. It can be challenging for an individual to recognize when their drinking is out of hand. Family, friends, and colleagues, are in a position to intervene if they notice someone’s behavior has changed as a result of drinking. Early intervention is always the best-case scenario. With early intervention, someone can begin to receive alcohol addiction help before their substance use disorder further damages their life and the lives of others.

Signs You Have Developed an Alcohol Addiction

Choice is a major factor in determining alcohol abuse vs. alcohol addiction. When an individual stops actively making choices, their drinking has progressed from misuse or abuse to addiction.  A person who is able to have just a couple of drinks and stop may be abusing alcohol as a form of self-medicating but this does not necessarily mean they are physically or psychologically addicted to alcohol. On the other hand, a person who cannot control the amount they drink has an addiction. A good treatment center offers  Common signs of alcohol addiction can include:

• Inability to reduce or cease drinking 
• Not visibly intoxicated after heavy drinking 
• Avoiding social events where drinking is not possible 
• Increased isolation 
• Difficulty completing everyday daily tasks without drinking 
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Issues maintaining positive relationships

Alcohol addiction is devastating to the lives of those who struggle with addiction as well as friends and loved ones who watch a person damage their lives and the lives of others. It’s important to remember that recovery is always possible. Detox centers for alcohol are a safe and secure way to manage the unpleasant feelings of withdrawal that can make it difficult to quit drinking.  If you or someone you care about is showing common signs of alcohol addiction, consider reaching out for professional help. Common symptoms of alcohol addiction can include:

• Prioritizing use  
• Tolerance
• Cravings
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Increase in use
• Hiding the amount of use
• Loss of interest 
• Lack of responsibility
• Relationship issues

Find an Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center Today

A good alcohol addiction treatment center will work with clients to help personalize a treatment plan that works for your particular circumstances. Expert medical professionals know how to manage the symptoms of alcohol addiction and help you navigate detox and withdrawal symptoms. Treatment facilities offer a range of programs that often include: 

• Inpatient programs
• Gender-specific programs
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
• Outpatient treatment (OT)
• Aftercare program 
• Relapse prevention program 

Treating both the mind and the body is important. That’s why many treatment programs include mental health counseling. Common therapy techniques include:

• Individual therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Trauma therapy
• Family therapy
• Group therapy

Contact an alcohol addiction center today to speak with a specialist about treatment programs and mental health counseling services that can help you get your life back on track. Remember, recovery is always possible.