Have you ever wondered about the journey from enjoying a casual drink to alcoholism? Where does someone draw the line between having a drink to unwind and living with alcohol addiction?
In this blog post, we’re looking at the stages of alcoholism, but from the perspective of how this disease can develop in real life, moving from social drinking to a place where alcohol takes centre stage. Whether you’re reading out of personal interest or concern for a loved one, we hope to provide valuable information and perspectives on how an addiction may evolve.
Are There Really Stages of Alcoholism?
Yes, there are recognised stages of alcoholism and how it can develop. It’s often described in the progression of the disease of alcohol use disorder (AUD), as developing a severe addiction doesn’t happen overnight. Understanding these stages can help identify the severity of alcohol addiction and guide treatment and intervention strategies. The stages of alcoholism are not strictly linear and may overlap or vary from person to person. Still, they provide a framework for understanding how alcohol abuse can escalate over time.
The Stages of Alcoholism
Quite often, alcohol use disorder forms very subtly, gradually progressing from alcohol use to abuse and, finally, to dependency. Remember, the information provided below is a typical example of how alcohol use disorder may develop, and it may look different depending on the individual.
Experimenting With Alcohol and Occasional Use
The journey into alcohol use often starts socially with simple curiosity. Experimenting with alcohol in a way that seems harmless and controlled. Remember, drinking alcohol is widely seen as a ‘normal’ thing to do, so it’s not something that (in isolation) is seen as a cause for concern at first.
This initial introduction into drinking is marked by an individual’s ability to regulate consumption without significant negative outcomes. It’s a period of discovery where the effects of alcohol are experienced in a controlled environment, often with a focus on joining in with everyone else.
However, even at this early stage though, it’s essential to recognise the subtle cues that could indicate a progression towards more frequent use. While many navigate this phase without escalating their drinking habits, for some, this period plants the seeds for patterns that could grow into more problem drinking and/or binge drinking behaviour. The key here is awareness and moderation, ensuring that alcohol remains a choice rather than a necessity.
Obvious Increased Drinking
As individuals become more familiar with alcohol use, the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption can start to increase. This phase often signals the beginning of a more habitual relationship with alcohol.
What might have started as occasional social drinking can gradually become a much more frequent activity. For example, arranging to go out and drink alcohol every Friday, without fail, after work.
It’s not uncommon for people at this stage to use alcohol as a stress reliever. And that subtle shift from ‘wanting a drink’ to ‘needing a drink’ to unwind can be a red flag. Although drinking may still seem manageable and not overly disruptive, the increased frequency can lead to tangible consequences, such as feeling out of control and doing something you’re not proud of whilst drinking.
Here, the balance starts to tip. Drinking for pleasure and drinking to cope begin to weigh heavily on the latter. Awareness of these changes in early-stage alcoholism is so important, as it’s a stage where patterns are being set, and priorities are beginning to shift.
Problem Drinking Starts
Problem drinking, such as frequent and ongoing binge drinking behaviour, marks a significant shift in the individual’s relationship with alcohol. This stage is characterised by an escalation in both the frequency and intensity of drinking.
The consequences of alcohol use become more pronounced and can manifest in various aspects of life, such as deteriorating relationships and job performance. It’s a stage where the control once felt over alcohol consumption begins to decline, giving way to cravings and a noticeable neglect of other life areas.
What was once a choice now feels more like a necessity, with alcohol occupying a central role in the individual’s daily routine. The joy and social connection that may have initially driven alcohol use fades into the background, replaced by a reliance on alcohol to function or feel normal.
A Dependence Develops
Dependence on alcohol is when the body has now physically adapted to the consistent alcohol intake. This looks like building a tolerance, which simply means needing increasingly more alcohol to achieve the same effects. Individuals will also suffer from alcohol withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, which include tremors, anxiety, sweating, increased heart rate and more.
At this point, alcohol is no longer a part of life. It quite literally becomes central to the individual’s existence, whether it be overtly or not. Attempts to cut back may be met with physical discomfort and intense cravings, making the idea of quitting seem just impossible.
At this stage, if the individual is at a point where they are asking for help to overcome alcohol dependence, it should be met with compassionate understanding. Breaking the cycle of dependence involves addressing both the physical and psychological parts of addiction, and it’s not easy.
Severe Alcohol Use Disorder Is Present
When a person has a very serious problem with drinking too much alcohol, it’s like they’ve reached a point where they can’t control it anymore. They need alcohol to feel normal and end up drinking a lot without caring about the harm it does to their health, relationships, or life. They find it very hard to stop drinking because their body and minds intensely crave alcohol, and the thought of stopping is scary because of withdrawal symptoms.
This problem is very deep and takes over their life, making it hard for them to make good choices. At this late stage, though, getting help from professionals is really important. The process to get better might include medical treatment to safely stop drinking, talking to therapists, joining groups with people facing similar issues, and sometimes taking medicine. It’s a tough journey to get back in control, but with the right support and effort, it’s possible.
Need Help? Reach Out Today
If you’re worried about alcohol addiction and feel as though you might be struggling, please get in touch with our team today.
We offer a free, confidential, and judgment-free service where you can talk freely about addiction and what’s worrying you. If necessary, we can also help you find suitable alcohol use disorder treatment that’s local and suits your needs. Fill out our form today, and we’ll be sure to call you at a time that’s convenient for you.
Posted on Thursday, March 28th, 2024 at 2:12 pm in Latest News.
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