Last Updated on October 1, 2024 by 2626robert
An alcoholic is someone who has developed a dependency on alcohol, characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences to their health, relationships, or job. This condition is commonly referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Signs of alcoholism include:
- Craving alcohol: A strong urge or desire to drink.
- Loss of control: Being unable to limit drinking or stop once starting.
- Physical dependence: Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (like nausea, sweating, shakiness) when not drinking.
- Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects.
- Continued use despite consequences: Persisting in drinking even when it causes harm to oneself or others.
Alcoholism is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with treatment such as therapy, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and sometimes medical intervention. It impacts people physically, mentally, and socially, and requires long-term strategies for recovery.