Definition of Alcoholism

Definition of Alcoholism

While people commonly refer to the definition of alcoholism as excessive problem drinking, the illness is segmented into two categories for diagnostic purposes: alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.

With alcohol abuse, the drinker refuses to stop consuming alcohol even when work, family, friends and other responsibilities are put at significant risk.

An alcohol abuse condition can easily lead to dependence or addiction without timely treatment.

Alcohol abusers may have legal problems such as drinking and driving. They may also have problems with binge drinking (drinking 6 or more drinks at one sitting).

Alcohol dependence is a physically and emotionally addictive condition that can turn fatal if the drinker does not seek help before the progressive illness takes its toll. Alcohol dependents spend a great deal of time drinking alcohol, and obtaining it. The illness is characterized by:

Alcohol Cravings – Drinking alcohol is an all-encompassing need and overshadows every thought and ambition during waking hours.
Increasing Tolerance – The drinker needs to consume additional quantities of alcohol to achieve the same effects.
Loss of Control – The alcoholic is powerless over his or her actions or compulsion to drink.
Physical Dependence – The body and brain become reliant on alcohol, which causes physical reactions or withdrawal when drinking stops. Withdrawal behavior may include nausea, irritability, tremors, and seizures.

No matter how you look at the definition of alcoholism, individuals suffering from either alcohol abuse or dependence require professional treatment that may include a variety of approaches designed to help the drinker become sober and maintain an alcohol-free lifestyle.

The first step in treatment is to seek the counsel of a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate the health and condition of the individual, make a diagnosis and design an appropriate treatment program.

Depending on the individual’s condition and needs, treatment may include one or more of the following: intervention, residential or outpatient program, counseling, medication, nutrition management, and/or ongoing support program participation.

For additional information on alcoholism diagnosis, click here. A review of treatment strategies and programs types, can be found by clicking here.

Definition of Alcoholism Reference: http://www.healthline.com/channel/alcoholism.html

More than the definition of alcoholism on our alcoholism disease page

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