Alcohol use disorder is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is a chronic disease that can have severe consequences if left untreated. Here are some important things to know about alcohol use disorder:
- What is alcohol use disorder? Alcohol use disorder is a chronic medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to control or stop drinking. People with this disorder may continue to drink even when it causes significant problems in their life, including legal, social, and health consequences.
- Signs and symptoms of alcohol use disorder The signs and symptoms of alcohol use disorder can vary from person to person, but common ones include:
- Drinking more alcohol than intended or for longer than intended
- Experiencing intense cravings for alcohol
- Having difficulty controlling the amount of alcohol consumed
- Continuing to drink even when it causes problems in relationships, work, or other areas of life
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Giving up social or recreational activities in favor of drinking
- How alcohol affects the body Alcohol affects the body in a number of ways, including:
- Interfering with brain function and cognitive abilities
- Increasing the risk of liver disease, heart disease, and certain types of cancer
- Weakening the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections
- Increasing the risk of accidents and injuries
- Contributing to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression
- Risk factors for alcohol use disorder Several factors can increase the risk of developing alcohol use disorder, including:
- Having a family history of alcoholism
- Experiencing trauma or stress
- Beginning to drink at a young age
- Drinking heavily or frequently
- Treatment for alcohol use disorder The good news is that alcohol use disorder is treatable. Treatment options may include:
- Medication-assisted treatment to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Behavioral therapy to help individuals learn new coping skills and behaviors
- Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous
- Residential treatment programs for severe cases
- Recovery from alcohol use disorder Recovery from alcohol use disorder is a lifelong process. It requires ongoing support and commitment to maintaining a sober lifestyle. Here are some tips for staying sober:
- Build a strong support system of friends, family, and other sober individuals
- Practice stress management techniques such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing
- Avoid triggers such as places or people that may lead to drinking
- Develop new hobbies and interests to replace time spent drinking
- Celebrate milestones and successes along the way
- Getting help for alcohol use disorder If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use disorder, it’s important to seek help. Resources for help include:
- Your healthcare provider
- Substance abuse treatment centers
- Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery
- Mental health professionals