Alcohol is a toxin to the body and can lead to numerous harmful effects, particularly for individuals who abuse it. Below are some key facts about alcohol’s impact and how to identify the signs of alcohol addiction.
Excessive alcohol consumption can seriously risk health. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides the following statistics:
- Alcohol contributes to over 200 diseases and injury conditions.
- Alcohol use accounts for 5.1% of the global disease and injury burden.
- 13% of deaths among individuals aged 20-39 are attributed to alcohol consumption.
- 6.7% of all male deaths and 2.4% of all female deaths are caused by alcohol.
Alcohol and its byproducts are toxic to both the brain and body, leading to a wide range of symptoms and health issues, particularly for those who abuse it.
The good news is that alcohol addiction treatment and rehab services are widely accessible, offering hope for those who are ready to seek the help they need.
What it Means to be Alcohol Addicted?
Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder, is defined by the inability to stop or control alcohol consumption, even in the face of negative social, occupational, and health effects. It’s not just about occasionally drinking “too much”; it is a multifaceted medical condition that affects individuals physically, emotionally, and behaviorally. Viewing alcohol use disorder as a chronic illness, similar to conditions like diabetes or hypertension, helps diminish stigma and encourages those affected to reach out for professional assistance.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is diagnosed based on a set of criteria that vary in severity. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), outlines that a person must meet at least two of the 11 specified criteria within a 12-month period to be diagnosed with AUD. These criteria include behaviors such as repeated alcohol consumption that interferes with fulfilling important responsibilities and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is decreased or stopped.
Levels of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Severity
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is categorized based on the number of diagnostic criteria met, which reflect the severity of the condition:
- Mild AUD: Meets two or three criteria
- Moderate AUD: Meets four or five criteria
- Severe AUD: Meets six or more criteria
No matter the severity of the addiction, it is essential to address alcohol-related issues promptly to prevent additional mental and physical damage. Early intervention can make the recovery process easier, but it is important to remember that recovery is achievable at any stage of the disorder.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder
