Alcohol contributes to over 5.1% of the worldwide burden of disease and injury, making it a leading risk factor for early mortality and disability. Alcohol is classified as a central nervous system depressant, which affects brain function and impairs motor skills, decision-making, and coordination at higher doses. Alcohol disrupts the brain’s communication pathways and neurotransmitters, leading to changes in mood, thoughts, and behavior.
Can an alcoholic just cut back or stop drinking?
Using alcohol during adolescence (from preteens to mid-20s) may affect brain development, making it more likely that they will be diagnosed with AUD later in life. However, most people with AUD—no matter their age or the severity of their alcohol problems—can benefit from treatment with behavioral health therapies, medications, or both. Learning about alcohol use disorder, expressing concern without judgment, and encouraging your loved one to get drug addiction professional health care are all valuable ways to show support. Getting help for yourself can help identify and stop enabling behaviors that inadvertently hurt your loved one. People drink alcohol for social bonding and enjoyment and to cope with negative factors like stress or emotional challenges. Social influence plays a significant role, as drinking is normalized in many gatherings and celebrations, promoting bonding and inclusion.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
People with alcohol use disorder (AUD) cannot control how much they need and desire alcohol and, as a result, consume it in amounts that can lead to severe health issues. Genetics may make some individuals more susceptible, but a person’s environment plays an important part. Over the long or medium term, excessive drinking can significantly alter the levels of these brain chemicals. This causes the body to crave alcohol to feel good and avoid feeling bad. Some people prefer to try cutting back or quitting on their own before committing time and money to rehab. And there are a few approaches that can identify and combat drinking at an early stage.
See, Play and Learn
- Alcoholics Anonymous is a 12-step facilitation group that is beneficial to your recovery.
- Treatment may involve a brief intervention, individual or group counseling, an outpatient program, or a residential inpatient stay.
- If an individual is beginning to think about alcohol as a problem worth trying to solve, educational groups may provide support for weighing the pros and cons of drinking.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition where you constantly use alcohol despite its negative consequences. AUD can put you at risk of developing many diseases, including heart disease and alcoholism cancer. Many people with alcohol problems and their family members find that participating in support groups is an essential part of coping with the disease, preventing or dealing with relapses, and staying sober. Your health care provider or counselor can suggest a support group.
