What is Alcohol Dependence AKA Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol dependence is a serious and growing problem for individuals, families and communities. It is a chronic and progressive disorder that can cause many physical, emotional and social problems.

People often struggle to control their drinking and may experience alcohol-related health problems, financial difficulties, relationship problems and social isolation.

Heavy drinking can increase the risk of developing certain medical conditions and the consequences can be severe.

It is important to recognize the signs and seek help if needed. 

Definition of Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, is a condition in which an individual has become physically and/or psychologically dependent on alcohol. It is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over drinking and a negative emotional state when not drinking.

Individuals are at risk for a variety of health problems, including liver disease, high blood pressure, depression and social consequences.

Treatment options include professional counseling, support groups and medication-assisted treatment.

Effects of Alcohol Abuse / Alcohol Misuse

This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It is characterized by an inability to control drinking and a preoccupation with alcohol. People who are dependent on alcohol often experience physical, psychological and social problems due to their drinking.

Long-term dependence can cause numerous physical health problems, such as liver damage, decreased immunity, increased risk of certain types of cancer, and heart and vascular disease. It can also lead to psychological issues such as depression and anxiety and even suicide.

It can also cause financial problems due to increased spending on alcohol and other related expenses. In addition to the physical and mental health risks, it can also have a huge impact on a person’s relationships.

People who are dependent on alcohol often have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, as their drinking can lead to arguments and conflict. They become isolated from family and friends, as they may find it difficult to socialize without drinking.

This is a serious condition that can have a devastating effect on a person’s life. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, it is important to seek help.

Treatment options are available that can help people manage their drinking and reduce the risks associated with it. Please contact Luxe Recovery today to discuss our wide range of individualized treatment options.

Symptoms of Alcohol Dependency

Signs:  

• Drinking more or longer than intended
• Inability to cut down or stop drinking
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
• Cravings for alcohol
• Increased tolerance to alcohol
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Neglecting activities and responsibilities
• Drinking despite negative consequences
• Giving up other activities to drink
• Loss of control over drinking

Physical Symptoms 

Physical symptoms include:

• Frequent hangovers
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Frequent headaches
• Decreased coordination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Shakiness
• Decreased libido
• Liver damage
• Hallucinations (during withdrawal)

Psychological Symptoms

Psychological symptoms include:

1. Changes in mood: Feeling irritable, anxious or depressed when not drinking.
2. Intense cravings for alcohol: Experiencing strong urges to drink.
3. Loss of control: Not being able to limit the amount of alcohol consumed.
4. Increased tolerance: Needing more and more alcohol to feel the same effects.
5. Denial: Refusing to admit that there is a problem with drinking.
6. Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological symptoms when not drinking, such as shakiness, sweating, anxiety, depression and fatigue.

Behavioral Symptoms

Loss of control over drinking:Struggling to limit or stop drinking, drinking more than intended, and inability to predict how much will be consumed.

Increasing tolerance: Needing to drink more alcohol to feel the same effects.  

Craving: A strong, persistent urge to drink.

Neglecting other activities:Spending more time drinking or recovering from drinking and ignoring other activities and responsibilities.

Continued drinking despite negative consequences: Continuing to drink despite relationship problems, financial issues, or health problems caused or exacerbated by drinking.

Symptoms and Causes of Alcohol Dependence

This is a complex disorder that can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. There are major impacts on a person’s life and the lives of those around them.

It is important to understand that while genetic and social factors may play a role in the development of dependence, there are also environmental causes that can contribute to this condition.

Genetic Factors

Genetics can play a major role in the development of alcoholism, by influencing the individual’s predisposition addiction, as well as their response to alcohol.

Research has identified certain genetic variants that are associated with a greater risk for developing dependence, as well as an increased likelihood of developing physical and psychological dependence upon alcohol.

These genetic variants may be inherited from a parent, or they may be acquired through environmental exposure. In addition, certain gene variations may affect the way the body metabolizes alcohol, leading to increased tolerance levels and a greater risk for developing a serious problem.

Environmental Factors 

Environmental factors include:

1. Stressful life events: Experiencing traumatic or stressful events can lead to the development of an alcohol problem.
2. Social pressures: Peers and family members can influence a person to drink more heavily than usual, which can increase the risk.
3. Access to alcohol: Accessibility of alcohol can increase the risk of developing a problem.
4. Cultural beliefs: Cultural beliefs and values that encourage heavy drinking can also contribute.
5. Mental health issues:Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can increase the risk.

By understanding the environmental causes, it is possible to take steps to reduce the risk of developing this condition.

This can include limiting access to alcohol, providing support to those who are struggling with alcoholism and creating an environment that encourages healthy coping mechanisms instead of relying on alcohol.

Social Factors

Social factors, in particular, can be major contributors to the development of alcoholism. These include peer pressure, cultural attitudes towards drinking, availability of alcohol and family attitudes and behaviors.

1. Peer pressure is a major factor. When young people see their friends drinking, they may be more likely to do the same. This can create a cycle of drinking, which can lead to alcohol dependency.

2. Cultural attitudes towards drinking can also play a role. In some cultures, drinking is seen as a way to show manhood or adulthood. This may lead to more frequent and excessive drinking, which can lead to addiction.

3. The availability of alcohol is another key social factor. Easy access to alcohol in stores, bars, and even online can make it more likely that individuals will drink, particularly in excess.

4. Family attitudes and behaviors can contribute to alcohol dependency. If a family member is a heavy drinker, this may have an influence on other family members. Additionally, if parents provide alcohol to their children, this can lead to more frequent and excessive alcohol use.

Overall, social factors can be major contributors and understanding these factors can help people reduce their risk of developing a problem.

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors play a major role and include:

• Psychological dependence on alcohol can develop from a variety of causes such as stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues.
• A person may use alcohol to cope with difficult emotions or to escape from reality.
• Other psychological factors include low self-esteem, family history of alcohol dependence and difficulty in expressing emotions.
• People who lack social support are also more likely to become dependent on alcohol.
• Additionally, certain personality traits, such as impulsiveness, can make someone more vulnerable to developing an alcohol use disorder.

Ultimately, it is important to recognize the psychological factors that can contribute to alcohol dependency, as this can help people identify their own risk factors and take steps to address them.

Biological Factors

Biological factors play a major role.

1. Genes and family history of alcohol dependence can increase an individual’s risk of developing it.

2. Biological markers, such as the presence of certain chemicals in the body, can indicate a predisposition to alcohol dependence.

3. Personality traits, such as impulsivity and sensation-seeking, can also increase an individual’s risk. 

Treatment Options for Alcohol Use Disorder

Treatment options are available to help people learn to live without alcohol and focus on recovery. 

1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) 

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

3. Support Groups 

4. Professional Counseling/Therapy 

5. Inpatient or Outpatient Rehabilitation Programs 

6. 12-Step Programs

These interventions can help individuals to control their drinking and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol withdrawal is a set of symptoms that can occur when a person who has been drinking heavily suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol consumption.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, tremors, sweating, rapid heart rate, and seizures. Severe withdrawal can even be fatal. It is important to seek medical help when experiencing alcohol withdrawal as it can be dangerous and should be managed by a professional.

Safely Detox from Alcohol

Detoxing safely from alcohol is an important step in recovery. It is important to remember that detoxing from alcohol can be dangerous, so it is important to be properly supervised by medical professionals or be under the care of a detox center.

  Before beginning a detox program, it is important to understand the risks and create a plan that is best suited for you. It is also important to understand the potential side effects of detoxing from alcohol and to be prepared for them.

When detoxing from alcohol, it is important to stay hydrated and to eat a balanced diet.

It is also important to get plenty of rest, exercise and to limit the amount of stress in your life. Additionally, it is important to talk to a doctor or therapist about any medications you may need to help cope with withdrawal symptoms and to help prevent relapse.

Finally, it is important to have a supportive network of friends, family, and support groups.

Having a strong support system can help you stay on track and stay motivated during the detox process. With the right support, you can safely and effectively detox from alcohol.

Drinking too much alcohol? Get Help Today!

If you or a loved one are living with alcohol addiction, reach out to Luxe Recovery. We offer a world class substance abuse treatment program to help you towards a life of sobriety.