Alcoholism Versus Alcohol Abuse

Almost everyone has experienced the noxious results of too much alcohol at least once in their lifetime. But how many hangovers does it take to turn a heavy drinker into an alcoholic? While that may sound like a set-up for a bad joke, the answer is far more complex than a goofy punch line.

Addiction is no laughing matter. More than one-hundred thousand families mourn the passing of loved ones each year whose lives are cut short by problems with alcohol. Health problems and traffic accidents are typically the main cause of death, although large numbers of fires, falls, drownings, suicides, and homicides are also related to alcohol use.

The Canyon exists so that anyone suffering from alcohol or drug addiction can have a place to go to get help. From our scenic views to our top-notch staff, gourmet organic meals and private meditation space, no other rehab is quite like The Canyon. We understand how difficult it can be to admit you have a problem, which is why experienced, compassionate counselors are available any time, day or night, to help you get started when the moment is right.

The Definition of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse is a distinguished pattern of heavy drinking that consistently leads to physical, emotional, and/or social repercussions. There is usually a moderate amount of control left in the decision making process when choosing to drink or not drink, but eventually this, too, becomes obscure as the body becomes more and more dependent on the substance in order to maintain a state of normalcy.

It is important to realize that you don't have to be an every-day drinker to abuse alcohol. Binge drinking - drinking heavily only one or two days out of the week - is just as abusive at chronic intoxication.

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The Definition of Alcoholism

When alcohol takes over and the user absolutely cannot function without it, that person is under the influence of addiction, or in this case, alcoholism. Excessive amounts of alcohol in the body for extended periods of time will cripple organs, tissues, and nerve cells - especially the brain. The result is a compulsion to drink that is stronger, even, than the need to eat. There is no longer a decision about when to start or when to stop drinking because an addict's life constantly revolves around getting and consuming more alcohol.

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When to Treat Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

• Needing to use more than you once did to find relief
• Forgetting events that happened when you were drinking
• Drinking more than you intended/ no being able to stop drinking once you've started
• Failing at every attempt to quit or cut back
• Ignoring school, work, or childcare responsibilities because you're constantly consuming and recovering from alcohol
• Risking personal safety - driving, boating, swimming under the influence
• Manipulating, arguing, or fighting with loved ones with reference to alcohol and its effects
• Getting fired, arrested, detained, or charged with a crime related to drinking (DUI)
• Having trouble sleeping
• Feeling sick, nervous, or uncomfortable when alcohol isn't immediately available
• Hallucinating - seeing or feeling things that aren't really there
• Using more alcohol or illicit drugs to help ease the symptoms of a hangover
• Experiencing depression, anxiety, or harmful thoughts
• Giving up pleasurable activities so you can spend more time or money drinking

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Treating Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Recovery depends largely on the duration, severity, and nature of the abuse. Individuals who abuse alcohol but are not yet dependent usually recover well with outpatient counseling and temporary medications. Alcoholics typically need much longer periods of inpatient treatment with supportive aftercare therapy and 12-step sponsorship to achieve lasting results.

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Treat Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism at The Canyon

The Canyon wants you to know that no matter how far your addiction has progressed, no matter how much you've lost or stand to lose, it's never too late to get help. Sobriety can be a scary and confusing time, which is why our experienced counselors are devoted to helping you succeed with personalized coping strategies, emotional management, and positive life skills that can take you where you want to go.

Call now for a free, personalized assessment of your needs.

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