Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is the official clinical term for diagnosing an unhealthy pattern of alcohol consumption that can lead to more serious concerns. With prolonged alcohol abuse comes several physical, mental, and psychological effects. From liver issues and tolerance to alcohol to cravings and neglecting personal wellness, AUD can dramatically alter your life.
The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics reports that 1-in10 Americans over the age of 12 have Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).[1] That’s 10% of our population or equal to approximately the entire state of California. And yet, the daily struggle of someone with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) can be devastating.
The official diagnostic criteria for AUD, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health, include:[2]
Each person is different, and individual levels of tolerance will vary, making it difficult to estimate what is a “safe” amount of alcohol. It’s important to remember that more is at work than simply a physical or chemical response to alcohol. One drink or even a sip could be too much for those who suffer from AUD.
However, the science behind excessive or binge drinking is readily available. Studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicate that five or more drinks in a two-hour period would be classified as binge drinking for men, while it would be four drinks in the same timeframe for women.[3]
Excessive alcohol use is responsible for over 140,000 deaths every year in the U.S.[4] Aside from fatal effects, there are a number of concerning health risks that jeopardize your health, including heart issues, altered brain functioning, immune system compromise, liver diseases, and cancer. [5]
Withdrawal symptoms and timeline may vary for each person, based on their medical history, the presence of any additional substances, and the timeline of alcohol usage. The National Library of Medicine shares the primary alcohol withdrawal symptoms to watch out for:[6]
Some of the more serious and complex symptoms that can be associated with alcohol withdrawal include delirium tremens. This presents as shaking, hallucinations, and confusion and can be fatal.[7]
If you or a loved one are experiencing any or all of these symptoms, please seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible.
Treatment for any mental health, co-occurring, or substance use disorder must be customized to each individual's needs. Whether you’ve just begun your recovery journey or you’re well on your way to healing, we’ve designed a treatment program to help and provide the support you need:
There is far more to any disorder than simple physical health risks. There are often emotional, mental, psychological, and social challenges that must also be addressed. Therapy helps you or your loved one address harmful thought and behavior patterns to build healthier habits and a more positive lifestyle. Therapy modalities at NUMA include:
