Alcohol Abuse & Dependence

Alcohol | Alcohol Abuse & Dependence | Alcohol Use & Resources

When does alcohol abuse become alcohol dependence?

Many of the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse overlap with the signs and symptoms of alcohol dependency. There is a fine line between the two, but the crossover occurs when the person becomes dependent on alcohol.

An alcoholic is unable to control their drinking, they have built up a tolerance to alcohol which over time requires them to drink larger quantities of alcohol in order to obtain the same effect, and they will usually experience withdrawal symptoms when they don't drink.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse

Health	Continuing to drink even though you have health problems that are affected or caused by your drinking
Financial issues	Paying bills late; collection agencies calling Inability to keep track of your money
Legal issues	Driving while under the influence (DUI)
Risky behavior	Putting yourself or others in danger
Employment or school	Continuing to drink even though you realize your job or education is in jeopardy Missing work or school, or going in late due to alcohol use
Family and friends	Feeling annoyed when other people comment on, or criticize your drinking habits Feeling remorse or guilt after drinking Associating with questionable acquaintances or frequenting out of the ordinary locations when drinking
Social life	Scheduling your day around drinking Focusing recreational activities around obtaining alcohol, drinking or recovering from alcohol use Drinking alone or in secret

Signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence

Cravings	Strong and overwhelming desire to drink alcohol at a specific time or the next morning Creating a ritual of having drinks before, with, or after dinner, and becoming annoyed when this pattern is disturbed or questioned
Tolerance	A tendency to drink more than intended to feel the same effect, or being unable to stop drinking once you start to drink alcohol Consuming a large quantity of alcohol without appearing intoxicated
Effects on memory and motivation	Not remembering conversations or commitments; sometimes referred to as a "blackout" Losing interest in activities and hobbies that were once pleasurable