What It Is

Alcohol addiction, more commonly known as alcoholism, is often referred to as the disease that knows no boundaries. While scientists and medical researchers have long been trying to pinpoint genetic, gender, racial or socioeconomic factors that may predispose an individual to alcohol addiction, it appears that alcoholism has no singular cause and can afflict anyone. In the medical community, alcohol addiction is referred to as a psychosomatic condition, meaning that social, psychological, and behavioral factors can all contribute to the onset and progression of the disease.
Alcohol addiction can manifest in a variety of ways. The severity, frequency of use, or type of alcohol consumed can vary significantly from one person to the next. Some individuals may drink heavily all day, while others binge drink for a period and then stay sober until the next “bender.” Regardless of how the addiction manifests, alcoholism is usually present if a person heavily relies on the substance and cannot maintain sobriety for an extended period of time.
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Symptoms and Signs

Identifying the signs of an alcohol addiction can be difficult. Unlike an illegal substance like cocaine or heroin, alcohol is a commonly used—and abused—drug that is readily available and acceptable in most cultures. It often permeates social situations and is intimately associated with the ideas of celebration, reward, and fun. Additionally, alcoholics generally become adept at hiding behavior from loved ones or minimizing the negative consequences of their drinking. To determine if alcoholism may be present, look for any or all of the following behaviors:
  • Increased amount of alcohol consumption or increased frequency of use
  • Higher tolerance when drinking or lack of “hangover” symptoms
  • Increased activity in social situations where alcohol is present or avoidance of social situations where alcohol will not be present
  • Changes in friendships. An alcoholic will almost always surround himself with others who drink just as heavily
  • Alienation from loved ones
  • Hiding alcohol, such as in the closet, bathroom or other places where no one will find it
  • Dependence on alcohol to function or be “normal” in every day life
  • Increased lethargy, depression, or onset of emotional issues
  • Legal or professional consequences such as an arrest or loss of job
Since alcohol addiction tends to be progressive in nature, it’s important to look for early warning signs before the alcoholic suffers negative consequences as a result of the disease. If you are worried that an addiction is present, it’s best to approach the alcoholic and convey your concerns in a supportive manner.