Alcohol Abuse vs Alcoholism Key Differences for Alcohol Misuse

Understanding the distinction between alcohol abuse and alcoholism is crucial for identifying the severity of an individual’s alcohol-related issues. Notably, alcohol abuse does not necessarily involve physical dependence or a compulsive need to drink. Alcoholism, also known as Alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic brain disease characterized by an inability to control or abstain from alcohol despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is recognized by patterns of compulsive alcohol use, a lack of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using.

Presence of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Because a person with NPD will often approach therapy with ambivalence or negative feelings, they are more likely to give up prematurely. They also tend to have a low tolerance for stress and will often give up and walk away than deal with it. Keep in mind, too, that AUD can have effects that extend beyond your physical health. What’s more, many people simply distinguish between alcohol abuse and alcoholism don’t digest alcohol easily, so a lower tolerance for alcohol doesn’t always relate to body size or gender. For example, a woman over 6 feet tall may be able to safely drink more alcohol than a woman who barely clears 5 feet. Similarly, a short man with a lower body weight may become intoxicated more quickly than a tall man with a higher body weight.

• We have been researching the health effects of alcohol for a combined 60 years.
• Our contributions to medical research and education lead to better healthcare outcomes.
• Earlier this month, for instance, the media reported on a new study that found even small amounts of alcohol might be harmful.
• What’s more, many people simply don’t digest alcohol easily, so a lower tolerance for alcohol doesn’t always relate to body size or gender.
• The disorder can also be broken down further into mild, moderate, and severe subtypes.

Why Is Medication for AUD Underutilized?

• The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) outlines several evidence-based treatments, including behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups.
• American Addiction Centers (AAC) is committed to delivering original, truthful, accurate, unbiased, and medically current information.
• Alcohol abuse refers to continuing to use alcohol, often excessively, even though it creates problems in a person’s life, including health, relationship, and work-related consequences.
• Having support and seeking professional treatment increases the chances for recovery from AUD.
• Recovery and rehabilitation offer hope and the potential for reversing some of the damage caused by alcohol, but early intervention is key to preventing the most severe health consequences.

They may even begin to neglect their own personal hygiene and appearance. By educating yourself, you can also educate them about what AUD and NPD are about. You can take them with you to your next appointment to talk with your healthcare https://ecosoberhouse.com/ provider. Reach out to loved ones you trust who can walk with you through the recovery journal. If you have NPD and AUD, finding support can be challenging because they are two separate disorders with two separate treatment approaches.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol dependence was originally defined as a chronic medical condition characterized by experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when the person stops consuming alcohol. To avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms, the person has to keep consuming alcohol. Generally, however, the difference between alcohol misuse and AUD lies in looking at how a person drinks in the short term, as opposed to over a prolonged period of time. In other words, an individual will never be diagnosed with alcoholism by a psychiatrist or medical professional. Instead, individuals will be given the diagnosis of alcohol use disorder.

Early Signs of Alcoholism

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