What may start as having a few drinks out with friends can turn into needing to drink daily and in a higher quantity to avoid withdrawal. Understanding alcohol use disorder, the health risks and the treatment options is key to overcoming it.
What is alcohol use disorder?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a condition characterized by the inability to control or stop consuming alcohol. It’s considered a brain disorder, and some are at an increased risk for developing AUD. Those factors include:
- Drinking at an early age — Those who begin drinking before the age of 15 are three times more likely to have AUD.
- Genetics and family history — Genetics account for approximately 60%, but the environment, including parents’ drinking patterns, may influence the likelihood of developing AUD.
- Mental health conditions and history of trauma — Depression, PTSD, ADHD and those who have a history of childhood trauma are at a higher risk of developing AUD.
Signs and symptoms of AUD
The severity of AUD is dependent on the number of symptoms an individual experiences. There are physical, behavioral and psychological symptoms that characterize AUD.
Developing a tolerance for alcohol is a sign of AUD. This means it will take more alcohol for you to feel its effects. Some may experience withdrawal symptoms when they don’t drink. They may need to drink to avoid symptoms like nausea, sweating, shaking or even seizures.
“Those who struggle with alcohol use disorder will spend a significant amount of time drinking, getting alcohol or recovering from the use of alcohol,” says Caroline McAllister, MD a primary care physician at Mount Nittany Health.
Effects of AUD
The effects of AUD go beyond the apparent intoxication and risks that are associated with it. Health concerns such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease and digestive problems are long-term effects of alcohol use disorder.
Social and interpersonal problems such as violence, risky sexual behavior, strained relationships, family problems, job-related problems and unemployment are also a concern the longer someone struggles with AUD. There is a substantial impact on mental health, and those with AUD are at higher risk for depression and anxiety.
Diagnosis and screening
Your healthcare provider will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to evaluate you for alcohol use disorder. This criterion helps to assess if a person has AUD and the severity of the disorder. Severity is based on the number of criteria a person meets. Meeting 2-3 criteria is mild, 4-5 is moderate and those who meet 6 or more criteria are considered to have severe alcohol abuse disorder.
“Seeking medical help is nothing to be ashamed of. Talking with your primary care provider is a critical step in getting help if you or your family feel that you drink too much,” says Dr. McAllister.
Aside from your healthcare provider, you can seek help from a mental health professional or groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. It can be hard to recognize that you have a problem — denial is often a part of the battle. Be open to listening to your family, friends and coworkers if they are concerned about your drinking habits.
Treatment for alcohol use disorder
Depending on how severe the AUD is, you may need to work with your healthcare provider to manage your withdrawal and detoxification. Alcohol withdrawal can be potentially life-threatening and should be discussed with your doctor.
Behavioral therapies such as counseling are targeted to change drinking behaviors. These therapies include interventions, reinforcement approaches, teaching coping skills and preventing a return to drinking and mindfulness therapies.
Three medications are currently approved to help people stop or reduce drinking. These medications are non-addictive and can be used alongside other therapies. Your healthcare provider can recommend the best treatment options for your individual needs.
Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Centre County Drug and Alcohol (D&A) can provide individual support and accountability from others who have conquered alcohol use disorder. These programs are typically at little or no cost and offer a community to support and encourage you.
Many people struggle with alcohol abuse disorder, but you are not alone and there is hope for recovery. The road can be long, but the benefits could save your life. Recovery starts with a conversation. Talk with your healthcare provider to learn how you can safely move forward today.