The Difference Between Alcohol Abuse and Dependence

The Problem at Hand

When someone develops a drinking problem, it can be easy to forget that this person never set out to become an alcoholic. Society is filled with images of people consuming alcohol and having fun, but these images never show the ugly aftermath of drinking. Unfortunately, it’s the families and friends of alcoholics who hurt the most, because they’re the ones who have to watch a loved one completely fall apart.

Many people can have just one drink and be content, but there are also many people who cannot. This is not the fault of those who are powerless against alcohol; it’s just the way their bodies process alcohol. They don’t see alcohol as a bad thing; instead, they view alcohol as something fun or an escape from their daily lives. Unfortunately, such a view usually leads to alcohol abuse and eventually alcohol dependency.

Alcohol Abuse

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines alcohol abuse as continued drinking despite its negative effects on health and functionality. Symptoms of alcohol abuse include drinking every night, drinking solely to get drunk, drinking while at work and choosing to drink instead of spending time with loved ones. This type of introverted behavior, when continued for a lengthy of time, convinces drinkers that they have a physical need for alcohol, which is when alcohol dependence begins.

Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol dependence, or alcoholism, exists when someone is physically or mentally unable to function in the absence of alcohol. People who are dependent upon alcohol suffer from visible withdrawal symptoms and are unable to curtail their drinking. Although alcoholics often cause others tremendous pain, they are oblivious to the predicament of others because they are so focused on their own drinking. Even if they are aware of the problems created by their drinking, they choose to drink anyway because they have developed such a strong need for alcohol.

Again, alcoholics should not be blamed for becoming dependent upon alcohol. It is merely their genetic predisposition to alcohol that has caused them to become alcoholics. As frustrating as it may be to deal with someone who does not want help, these people deserve respect and compassion. They cannot control what they have become, and they did not intend to end up this way.

Consequences of Alcohol Dependence

If you suspect someone you know is an alcoholic, you must get them help right away. The dangers of alcoholism are far too significant to ignore. Alcoholics run a far greater risk of driving while intoxicated than others; engaging in this behavior can not only result in police and legal trouble, but it can also result in injury or death. In addition, since alcoholics believe drinking is more important than going to work, they run the risk of being fired, which would only sink them further into their disease. Lastly, continued excessive drinking places a tremendous strain on the body, which can lead to liver disease, cancer and strokes.

Getting Help

Though it is easy to give up hope when confronted with alcoholism, you can take the biggest step in getting help for someone you love. Delray Recovery Center in south Florida is a first-class treatment facility with gorgeous surroundings and a certified staff with years of experience in treating alcoholism. Give us a call at (877) 503-0850 or go to www.delrayrecoverycenter.com and fill out our feedback form. A certified counselor will respond to your request promptly.