1. What is alcoholism? This is a type of substance abuse disorder that involves alcohol. It is a chronic condition that is progressive. Someone with this condition has a problem with controlling their intake, and they continue to drink even though it has devastating consequences on their life and loved ones.
2. How is there a problem when I can hold my liquor? This type of substance abuse does not mean that you drink and black out every day. Some individuals can consume a larger amount of alcohol without showing the effects because of a variety f factors including body weight and frequency of alcohol consumption.
3. Can I have alcoholism if I don’t change after drinking? The truth is that alcohol affects different people in different ways. Some people become angry drunks, others may get giggly and happy, while still others may just feel tired and want to take a nap. The frequency and amount of alcohol that is consumed is an indication of whether you need treatment for alcoholism or not.
4. Does heavy drinking or regular drinking mean I have this condition? Not necessarily. Alcohol abuse is a form of substance abuse but this alone does not define alcoholism. In order to be diagnosed as an alcoholic you must have an addiction to alcohol. Some problem drinkers or those that abuse alcohol are not addicted in spite of this.
Alcoholism and other forms of substance abuse are treatable and it is possible to achieve a full recovery when the right treatment program and methods are chosen.
