What is an alcoholic? If someone drinks every day, are they an alcoholic? These are important questions to consider. If you or a loved one is concerned about their drinking, Vertava Health’s alcohol rehab programs may be able to help. Contact us at 844.470.0410 today to learn more about treatment options for people with alcoholism or alcohol use disorder.
What Is an Alcoholic?
The definition of an alcoholic varies from person to person. Generally speaking, someone who drinks every day and experiences an adverse physical or psychological impact due to their drinking could be considered an alcoholic. This could include problems like:
- Hangovers
- Poor health
- Impaired judgment
- Loss of control over how much one drinks or when one stops drinking
- Inability to stop drinking
- Mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety
- Relationship problems caused by drinking
- Legal issues resulting from excessive alcohol use
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to talk to a medical professional about your concerns. Untreated alcoholism can lead to serious health complications and other risks.
Is There A Difference Between Alcohol Misuse And Alcoholism?
Yes. And when considering the ramifications of alcohol use on an individual’s life, it is very important to become educated and understand the similarities and differences between the two. Both alcohol use and alcoholism are harmful to your health. However, each requires specific treatment and is best handled under the care of a trained professional. It is especially important to understand that alcohol use if left unchecked to continue long-term, can turn into alcohol dependence.
The key differences between alcohol misuse and alcoholism are:
- Alcohol misuse is associated with occasional alcohol-related problems, whereas alcoholism refers to a chronic and progressive disorder of the brain.
- People who suffer from alcoholism typically have an intense craving for alcohol and can experience withdrawal symptoms if unable to consume it.
- Alcoholics usually drink excessively regularly over a period of time.
Once an individual begins drinking excessively or too frequently, they should be aware of the potential risks involved and seek help to prevent their situation from getting worse. If you think you have a problem with alcohol, reach out for help. Is someone who drinks everyday an alcoholic? It depends on the person’s drinking habits, overall health, and relationship with alcohol. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of an alcohol problem, seek professional help as soon as possible.
Signs Help Is Needed
If someone is drinking excessively and experiences any of the following issues, it’s important to seek help from a medical professional as soon as possible:
- Regularly drinking more than intended
- Feeling guilt or shame about their drinking habits
- Lying about how much alcohol they consume
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not consuming alcohol
- Increased tolerance
- Decreased interest or involvement in activities that were previously important to you
- Engaging in situations or activities while under the influence that can potentially be unsafe to yourself or others
- Finding that your drinking is interfering with relationships, school, work, or other responsibilities
- An increased preoccupation with drinking
- Hiding or disputing that you have a problem
When it comes to your health and well-being, there is no time to waste. If you or someone you know may have a problem with drinking, don’t hesitate to seek help today. Alcoholism can be treated, and recovery is possible. Vertava Health’s alcohol treatment centers are here for you when you need them most.
Heal From Alcohol at Vertava Health
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism or alcohol use disorder, help is available. Vertava Health offers multiple residential and outpatient treatment programs to help individuals on their journey to recovery. Our experienced staff of medical professionals are well trained in evidence-based treatments for addiction and will provide individualized care throughout the entire recovery process.
Contact us at 844.470.0410 today to learn more about our treatment options and resources so that we can help you or a loved one get back on the road to sobriety.
