Alcohol abuse is a widespread phenomenon, with millions of people around the globe experiencing addiction to alcohol and using it in higher amounts than recommended. However, what exactly is an alcohol use disorder? Furthermore, how do you know when someone needs help for alcohol use disorder or just enjoys drinks in moderation?
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we realize that there can be a fine line between occasional drinking and problematic drinking. Knowing how to tell if someone requires help for alcohol abuse can empower you to get yourself or someone you love into an addiction treatment program. If you are unsure if you are dealing with alcohol use disorder, call us today at 866.294.5306 for guidance.
Signs of Alcohol Dependence vs. Alcohol Use Disorder
There are certain signs of alcohol abuse that may indicate alcohol use disorder. Generally, there is a distinction between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol dependence is a maladaptive pattern of drinking, which leads to significant stress or impairment for the user. It manifests itself by three or more of the following criteria occurring within a 12-month period:
- A significantly higher amount of alcohol is necessary to achieve intoxication or the desired effect.
- You experience a diminished effect when using the same amount of alcohol as before.
- You experience symptoms of alcohol withdrawal when you try to stop or cut back on drinking.
- You’ve made one or more futile attempts to cut down or control drinking.
- You often drink more alcohol than intended.
- You’ve stopped engaging in important activities, socializing, and recreation to make more time for drinking.
- You spend a lot of time acquiring, using, or recovering from alcohol and continue drinking despite experiencing the negative effects.
Alcohol Use Disorder
In contrast, alcohol use disorder meets at least one of the following symptoms within a 12-month period:
- You repeatedly use alcohol in hazardous situations, like driving a car or operating a machine while being under the influence.
- Your recurrent alcohol use has impaired your fulfillment of major obligations at work, in school, or at home, like repeated absences from work and neglect of one’s household or children.
- You are experiencing legal problems connected to alcohol use, like being arrested because of disorderly conduct while intoxicated.
- You continue to use alcohol despite having repeated problems with work and family, such as arguments with one’s spouse about drinking.
Recovering from Alcohol Use Disorder
If a person suffers from alcohol abuse or addiction, the best course of action is to undergo therapy at an alcohol addiction treatment center in Ft. Lauderdale. Addiction therapy typically consists of psychotherapy, medication, and support. This treatment helps the client understand the underlying causes of alcohol use disorder and how to deal with it effectively. Knowing what led you to alcohol abuse in the first place can help you address the problem at its root. In addition, it enables the client to deal with withdrawal symptoms and cravings that are common when trying to overcome alcohol use disorder. This discomfort often leads to relapse, and receiving medication-assisted treatment can minimize your symptoms to keep you focused on recovery.
You can receive the therapy and medication needed to overcome alcohol use disorder at a reputable addiction treatment center. If you require inpatient care, you may stay in the facility for approximately 30 days. This treatment helps you get through withdrawal and strengthen your mental and physical health before returning home or to a sober living facility.
Find Help for Alcohol Abuse at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida
Do you or one of your friends or relatives suffer from alcohol use disorder? If so, there is help available at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida. At our alcohol addiction treatment center in Ft. Lauderdale, we provide the best therapy possible. You will learn more about your condition, its causes, and how to overcome it. Contact us now at 866.294.5306.
