How to Tell If You’re In Need of Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Wondering if you or a loved one’s relationship with alcohol has crossed the line? Understanding how to know if you have alcoholism involves recognizing signs like increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and neglecting responsibilities. To diagnose alcoholism, professionals assess criteria such as drinking patterns, behavioral changes, and the impact on daily life and relationships. Seeking guidance from a healthcare provider can provide clarity and support in navigating this journey. Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), manifests through a range of signs and symptoms. These can vary in severity from mild to severe and may include:

1. Craving: A strong urge or compulsion to drink alcohol.
2. Loss of Control: Inability to limit alcohol consumption or stop drinking once started.
3. Physical Dependence: Developing tolerance to alcohol, needing more to achieve the same effect, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
4. Increased Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to feel its effects over time.
5. Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical symptoms such as nausea, sweating, shaking, anxiety, and even seizures when not drinking.
6. Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritizing drinking over responsibilities at work, school, or home.
7. Social or Interpersonal Problems: Issues in relationships due to drinking, such as arguments with family or friends.
8. Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences: Drinking despite knowing it causes physical or psychological problems.
9. Loss of Interest in Hobbies: Neglecting activities that were once enjoyable in favor of drinking.
10. Hiding Drinking: Drinking in secret or lying about how much alcohol is being consumed.
11. Increased Time Spent Drinking: Spending a significant amount of time obtaining alcohol, drinking, and recovering from its effects.
12. Physical Symptoms: Poor coordination, slurred speech, memory lapses, and blackouts.
13. Mood Swings: Irritability, depression, or anxiety, especially when not drinking.
14. Financial Issues: Spending money on alcohol despite financial problems.
15. Legal Problems: Arrests or legal issues related to alcohol, such as DUI (Driving Under the Influence).

These signs and symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone with alcohol problems will experience all of them. However, if you or someone you know exhibits several of these signs, it may indicate a problem with alcohol that warrants attention and possibly professional help.

Alcohol Abuse vs Alcoholism

The difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism lies primarily in the severity and patterns of behavior related to alcohol consumption:

• Alcohol Abuse:
  • Alcohol abuse typically refers to excessive or harmful use of alcohol that leads to problems in various areas of life, such as work, school, or relationships.
  • Individuals who abuse alcohol may experience negative consequences due to their drinking but may not yet be physically dependent on alcohol.
  • Examples include binge drinking episodes, frequent intoxication, and continued use despite knowing it causes problems.
• Alcoholism (Alcohol Dependence or Alcohol Use Disorder):
  • Alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, and physical dependence on alcohol.
  • Individuals with alcoholism often experience tolerance (needing more alcohol to achieve the same effects) and withdrawal symptoms (such as shakes, anxiety, or nausea when not drinking).
  • Alcoholism is a chronic disease that can lead to serious health issues, and individuals may continue to drink despite knowing the negative consequences.

While both alcohol abuse and alcoholism involve problematic drinking behaviors, alcoholism typically represents a more severe form where physical dependence and loss of control are prominent features.

Types of Alcohol Addiction

Understanding the different types of alcoholism can provide insight into the diverse patterns and behaviors associated with alcohol use disorders. There are several recognized types or classifications of alcoholism, which reflect different patterns of behavior and underlying factors:

1. Binge Drinking Type:
   • Individuals with this type of alcoholism often engage in episodes of excessive drinking followed by periods of abstinence.
   • Binge drinking can lead to significant health risks and social consequences including increased likelihood of alcohol poisoning, liver disease, cardiovascular problems, neurological damage, and heightened risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment and coordination. It can also lead to long-term mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and contribute to social problems and relationship difficulties. .
2. Chronic Severe Type:
   • This type involves continuous heavy drinking over an extended period, leading to severe physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. It commonly leads to serious conditions such as liver disease (including cirrhosis), cardiovascular problems (such as hypertension and cardiomyopathy), pancreatitis, and gastrointestinal disorders. Neurologically, it can cause cognitive impairments, memory problems, and neuropathy. Additionally, chronic alcoholism often results in social consequences such as strained relationships, employment difficulties, and legal issues.
   • Individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop drinking abruptly.
3. Functional Type:
   • Functional alcoholics often maintain stable jobs and relationships while concealing their heavy drinking habits. They may downplay the extent of their alcohol consumption and its consequences, rationalizing it as a means to cope with stress or enhance social interactions. This group tends to prioritize alcohol over other responsibilities, using it as a crutch to manage daily pressures.
   • Despite outward appearances of functionality, functional alcoholics are not immune to negative consequences. Physically, they are at risk of developing serious health issues such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological impairments. Mental health may suffer, with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Socially, relationships may strain as loved ones become aware of their alcohol dependence. Workplace performance can decline due to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and impaired decision-making.
4. Young Antisocial Type:
   • Young antisocial alcoholics represent a distinct demographic characterized by early onset alcohol use, often beginning in adolescence. Their behavior commonly includes defiance of rules, impulsivity, aggression, and a disregard for the rights of others. Peer influence plays a significant role, with social circles often reinforcing alcohol misuse and antisocial behaviors. Many individuals in this group also contend with co-occurring disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, or ADHD, exacerbating their challenges.
   • The impacts of young antisocial alcoholism are multifaceted. Legal issues frequently arise, with higher rates of arrests related to alcohol use or criminal activities. Health consequences include injuries from accidents or violence, alongside long-term risks like liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological impairments. These individuals often experience disruptions in education and careers due to behavioral issues or absenteeism. Socially, relationships with family, friends, and peers may be strained due to intoxicated behavior or antisocial tendencies. Furthermore, reluctance to seek or adhere to treatment is common, stemming from denial, resistance to authority, or a lack of understanding about the consequences of their actions.
5. Intermediate Familial Type:
   • Intermediate Familial Types of alcoholics have a strong genetic predisposition to alcohol use disorder, often spanning multiple generations within families. This genetic vulnerability increases the likelihood that individuals will develop problematic drinking patterns early in life. They may be influenced by familial norms and behaviors around alcohol consumption, leading to a pattern of regular and sometimes heavy drinking. Despite awareness of the risks and consequences, individuals in this category often struggle to control their alcohol intake, reflecting the profound impact of genetic factors on their behavior.
   • Within families, alcoholism can strain relationships and contribute to dysfunction, as multiple members may be affected by the disorder. Health consequences are significant, with increased risks of developing serious medical conditions such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological impairments due to prolonged alcohol abuse. Psychologically, there is a higher prevalence of co-occurring mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, which are often exacerbated by alcohol use.
6. Late Onset Type:
   • Late Onset Types of alcoholics represent individuals who develop alcohol use disorder later in life, often triggered by significant life changes or stressful events such as retirement, loss of a loved one, or health issues. They may not exhibit the same patterns of heavy or frequent drinking seen in other types of alcoholism, but their alcohol use becomes problematic later in life.
   • Recognizing and addressing Late Onset Types of alcoholism can be challenging because individuals may not recognize their own problematic drinking behaviors until later stages. Treatment approaches should consider the unique circumstances and triggers that led to the onset of alcohol use disorder later in life, focusing on both the alcohol dependence and the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to the behavior.

These classifications provide a framework for understanding the diversity of experiences and behaviors associated with alcoholism. It’s important to note that individuals may not neatly fit into one type, and alcoholism can vary widely in its presentation and progression from person to person.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Options

At Ashley, our mission is to facilitate healing for individuals and families affected by alcoholism and substance use disorders. Our approach integrates compassionate care from skilled clinical professionals with evidence-based treatment methods that address the holistic needs of the mind, body, and spirit. Tailored to meet varying patient needs, our programs encompass three formats:, inpatient, outpatient, and extended care addiction treatment. No matter your situation, we are committed to guiding you towards a personalized and effective program that initiates your journey towards lasting recovery.

Inpatient Rehab

Located on our expansive 147-acre main campus in Havre De Grace, Maryland, the Primary Program offers a serene environment nestled in the Chesapeake Bay. It’s an ideal setting where individuals can discover the motivation needed to heal their mind, body, and spirit. Your journey to recovery begins with a personalized treatment plan that incorporates various modalities such as family therapy, drug and alcohol detox programs, individual therapy, meditation, physical wellness activities, and more — all tailored to address any co-occurring issues you may have. Our commitment is to support you in achieving the best possible outcome in your recovery journey.

Participants in the program benefit from comprehensive services including onsite, medically monitored detoxification if needed, consultations to address medical, therapeutic, and dietary needs, and access to a team of certified medical professionals and licensed clinicians. You’ll engage in both individual and group therapy sessions, attend 12-Step meetings, and gain valuable insights into the science of brain chemistry and substance use disorders. Moreover, you’ll receive practical tools to manage cravings and sustain long-term sobriety, along with an individualized continuing care plan designed to facilitate a smooth transition from inpatient treatment to the next phase of your recovery journey.

Outpatient Rehab

Our Bel Air campus outpatient program is tailored for those with strong support systems, facilitating sustained recovery while balancing education, careers, and community engagement. You’ll follow a personalized treatment plan spanning six to eight months, initially with weekly or twice-weekly sessions that may transition to monthly as you progress. Group therapy sessions provide peer support, while individual therapy offers personalized guidance.

This program includes comprehensive services such as case management, family therapy, medication-supported recovery, Naloxone™ training, and transportation, ensuring accessibility and support throughout your recovery journey.

Extended Care

Following traditional inpatient treatment, individuals recovering from substance use disorders often benefit from extended care programs to enhance their long-term recovery prospects. These programs offer comprehensive counseling, education, and wellness activities aimed at equipping participants with the skills needed to maintain a substance-free lifestyle.

Our extended care program spans 60 days at a private residence owned by Ashley. It includes thorough assessments to identify underlying factors contributing to substance use disorders, personalized treatment plans, group and individual counseling sessions, and case management. Participants also receive education on 12-Step and SMART Recovery programs, along with relapse prevention and life-skills training. Additionally, recreational activities are integrated to promote holistic well-being and support ongoing recovery efforts.

Supporting Your Entire Recovery

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out to our helpline, available 7 days a week, at 1-800-799-HOPE (4673), or contact us here for more information on how we can help.