Defined as a problematic use of alcohol, it can translate into a chronic pathological condition that causes an increase in tolerance, dependence and forms of abstinence by Editorial staff.
Alcoholism, defined as a problematic use of alcohol, can translate into a chronic pathological condition. Alcohol dependence causes an increase in tolerance, and can lead to forms of withdrawal.
- Alcoholism acts on a physical, psychological and mental level.
- In this article we will try to clarify the causes and consequences of alcohol abuse. We will cover alcohol addiction and possible therapies to deal with it.
- Try the psychological test
What is alcoholism?
Alcoholism, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), is the problematic use of alcohol. Alcoholism can translate into addiction and in the long run has a potentially fatal outcome.
Alcohol addiction causes the inability of those who suffer from it to manage the relationship with alcohol in a healthy way and to refrain from consuming it. The habit of drinking leads to the development of:
- tolerance
- dependence
- abstinence (in case of inability to access the object of addiction)
Alcoholism: what are the symptoms
There are 11 symptoms of alcoholism. A person is addicted to alcohol when he has at least two of the 11 symptoms indicated by the DSM-5, which last for a period of at least one year.
The list of alcoholism symptoms associated with alcohol addiction includes:
- a consumption of alcohol that exceeds in time and in quantity what are the intentions of the subject.
repeated unsuccessful attempts to stop drinking or reduce quantities, in the face of a constant desire to consume alcohol.
- inability to think of anything other than drinking.
- craving, that is, an urgent and uncontrollable urge to take alcohol.
- problems managing social relationships, work or school due to alcohol abuse and the consequences it entails (hangover for example).
- inability to stop drinking despite this leads to ongoing social problems.
renounces even important activities to be able to devote himself exclusively to the consumption of alcohol. - alcohol consumption even in situations where you can put your own safety or that of others at risk.
- alcohol abuse even after the appearance of social or psychological disorders associated with the consumption of alcohol.
- increase in the amount of alcohol consumed to achieve the desired effect, against an increase in alcohol tolerance.
- typical withdrawal symptoms and behaviors aimed at combating withdrawal symptoms
Alcohol addiction: the test
The alcoholism test allows you to know independently if you are addicted to alcohol. The test, developed by the WHO, helps to understand if:
- alcohol consumption is associated with a health risk factor
- it is excessive
- or corresponds to an alcohol addiction.