Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcoholism): Signs, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevalence, Consequences, Diagnosis & Treatment florida

Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcoholism): Signs, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevalence, Consequences, Diagnosis & Treatment

Alcohol consumption is common in the United States. In fact, according to data reported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 86.3 percent of adults in the United States have consumed alcohol during their lives, and just over half had consumed alcohol within the previous month, as of 2018.

While drinking a glass of wine with dinner or occasionally going out for a drink can be part of a healthy lifestyle, some people may drink excessively, which can become problematic. In 2018, 26.5 percent of American adults reported binge drinking within a given month, and nearly 7 percent admitted to drinking heavily, which experts define as five or more instances of binge drinking in a month.

Binging and drinking heavily may be socially acceptable in American culture, but they are concerning from a public health standpoint. People who continuously engage in heavy drinking are at risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, which is the term professionals use to describe a diagnosable alcohol addiction. Such a condition can have significant consequences and requires professional intervention.

alcohol addiction

I Have a Drinking Problem. Now What?

You’ve taken the first step towards recovery: admitting you have a problem. Now what? Get ready for the long, challenging, but very rewarding journey that you are embarking on.

Seek Alcohol Addiction Treatment

You do not have to be alone on this journey to recovery. Call an addiction hotline or reach out directly to an alcohol detox and recovery program. Trained professionals can help you have the best chance of getting and staying sober. The recovery process can include a variety of treatment methods including detox, medication, inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, therapy, and continuing care. You and your loved ones most likely have a lot of questions about what to expect once you start this journey.