Signs of Alcohol Abuse

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Signs of Alcohol Abuse

Although legal in most regions of the world, alcohol comes with a significant risk of dependence and addiction. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excessive alcohol use led to an estimated 88,000 deaths and a combined 2.5 million years of potential life lost each year in the U.S. between 2006 – 2010.

Among the most common symptoms and signs of alcohol abuse are:

  • Poor coordination
  • Slurred speech
  • Impaired thinking
  • Memory impairment
  • Wanting to stop drinking but not being unable to do so
  • Redirecting energy from work, family, and social life in lieu of drinking
  • Being deceptive and secretive about the extent of the alcohol use
  • Engaging in risky and impulsive behavior, such as drunk driving
  • Being in denial about the magnitude of the alcohol use problem
  • Becoming distressed about the possibility of not having alcohol available

When a person who routinely abuses alcohol stops drinking or dramatically cuts back, withdrawal symptoms will appear. Such symptoms can begin as soon as a few hours after the last drink and continue for several days or weeks. Symptoms can include shaking, anxiety, insomnia, and an overwhelming desire for a drink.

In severe cases, delirium tremens (DTs), a potentially life-threatening condition that includes seizures, hallucinations, and a fever may occur. For this reason, severe alcoholics should never go through the detox process without medical supervision.

Recognizing an Alcohol Use Disorder

Per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), diagnosis of an alcohol use disorder (AUD) requires that a person must meet at least two of 11 specific criteria within a 12-month period. Depending on the number of criteria satisfied, the person will be diagnosed with a mild, moderate, or severe alcohol use disorder.

These 11 criteria include:

  1. Feeling powerless to control one’s alcohol use.

2. Declining to participate in social activities or hobbies that used to be considered enjoyable.

3. Having a desire to stop or reduce drinking but finding it difficult or impossible to do so.

4. Using alcohol in risky situations, such as while swimming or driving.

5. Dedicating significant time and resources to drinking.

6. Developing tolerance for alcohol (i.e., requiring more alcohol over time to achieve the feelings of prior use).

7. Experiencing cravings for alcohol when not drinking.

8. Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when not drinking (e.g., sweating, shaking, and nausea/vomiting).

9. Encountering problems at work, home, or school due to alcohol use.

10. Having to drink alcohol to feel better, especially in response to withdrawal symptoms (i.e., the hair of the dog that bit you).

11. Continuing alcohol use even when it is leading to social, physical, relationship, and personal problems.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse

Another tool that helps determine whether an AUD is present is the CAGE substance abuse screening. The CAGE screening is a very short and simple questionnaire that attempts to measure a drinking problem’s severity.

The four questions on the CAGE screening questionnaire are as follows:

1. Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?

2. Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?

3. Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?

4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get over a hangover?

If an individual answers “yes” to any two or more of the questions, this likely indicates the presence of an alcohol use disorder.

Physical and Psychological Signs of Alcohol Abuse

The short-term impact of alcohol use on the body includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Slowed reaction times
  • Trouble with motor coordination
  • Impaired judgment and risk-taking without consideration of consequences (such as drunk driving)
  • Memory impairment or memory lapses (blackouts)
  • Slurred speech

An alcohol use disorder can result in permanent and debilitating health conditions that may require medical attention for a lifetime, such as liver disease and cognitive impairments. Excessive alcohol use also increases the risk of pancreatitis and certain types of cancer.

One of the hallmark signs of alcohol abuse drastically impacting a person’s health is malnutrition. The person may exhibit a gaunt appearance, hair thinning or loss, unhealthy skin pallor, and dark circles under their eyes. These may be symptoms of a condition known as thiamine (B1) deficiency, among other nutritional deficits.

Over a prolonged period of heavy drinking, people may encounter sleeping difficulties and mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety. Cognitive problems include a decreased attention span and motor coordination impairment.

Behavioral Signs of Alcohol Abuse

Right Wrong Ethical Unethical Road Street Signs 3d Illustration

Behavioral signs of an alcohol use disorder usually become apparent over time. Those who engage in alcohol abuse may become increasingly furtive about their activities, and drink covertly, either in a private place or away from friends and family who may voice their concerns.

As a consequence of drinking, people may become more accident prone and exhibit signs of injury, which they may try to conceal. A person who has an alcohol use disorder may also hide alcohol around the house or at work. He or she may become worried about running out of alcohol, which in turn means that they actively keep an available supply within reach.

Alcohol abuse can also cause people to exhibit a decreased level of care for their hygiene and physical appearance. As alcohol abuse advances, the person may look as if they have not been bathing, shaving, and are no longer washing or changing their clothing.

Alcohol abuse often results in problems with the person’s relationships – a person who has a rather calm affect when sober may experience mood swings, depression, irritability, or aggression when intoxicated.

Additional behavioral signs of alcohol abuse may include:

  • Increasing legal problems, such as charges related to assault, domestic violence, or drunk driving
  • Showing up intoxicated at work, school, or a family function
  • Overreacting to any perceived criticism levied against their drinking habits
  • Experiencing increasing financial troubles, such as uncharacteristically taking out loans, liquidating assets, or depleting cash accounts
  • Stealing to fund drinking habits
  • Engaging in risky or impulsive activities, such as unprotected sex

Many people with an alcohol use disorder who experience cognitive problems will recover with treatment within a year of sobriety. The outcome of recovery and maintained sobriety, however, depends on a myriad of medical, personal, and physiological factors.

Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Persons who suffer from alcoholism are urged to seek treatment as soon as possible. Many begin with a medical detox, a process in which the patient is supervised around the clock for several days while the body cleanses itself of alcohol and other toxins.

During this time, vital signs are monitored, and medical staff administer medication to ease the worst symptoms of withdrawal and address complications, should they arise.

After detox, persons with moderate to severe addictions are encouraged to participate in a long-term inpatient or partial hospitalization treatment program. Services include evidence-based approaches shown in clinical studies to be the most effective in the treatment of addiction, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and group support.

Our center offers a comprehensive, integrated approach to addiction treatment, and employs caring staff who specialize in addiction and deliver services to our clients with compassion and expertise. We provide the tools needed by those in recovery to achieve abstinence and maintain long-lasting sobriety and wellness.

You can reclaim your life and experience the happiness and well-being you deserve – contact us today to find out how we can help!

Liver Pain After Drinking Alcohol?

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A women with liver pain

Liver pain after drinking can be experienced in different ways; most commonly, as a dull, throbbing sensation in the upper right abdomen, but sometimes, it feels like a powerful stabbing sensation. The pain may be accompanied by swelling, and the person may also feel the pain travel up the back or in the right shoulder blade.

The liver’s primary purpose is to filter blood coming from the digestive tract before passing it to other areas of the body. The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs, and as it does so, it discharges bile that goes back in the intestines. The liver also creates proteins that are vital for blood clotting and other functions.

The liver isn’t often a cause of pain, but if you do feel liver pain after drinking, it’s a sign that something is happening in the body that needs a closer inspection. If the liver is damaged, it may not be noticed until the damage is quite serious.

How Does Alcohol Affect the Liver?

The liver is responsible for processing all of the alcohol that enters the system but is only able to handle a small amount at a time. When a person drinks, alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream via the stomach and small intestine.

This blood enters the liver in order to be filtered of harmful or foreign substances, including alcohol, before passing to the other areas of the body. Once in the liver, alcohol creates an enzyme called acetaldehyde that can harm liver cells and lead to irreversible scarring.

How Long Does it Take to Incur Alcohol-Related Damage to the Liver?

Liver damage develops in stages. The first is called steatosis, also known as fatty liver, which is a condition that occurs among most people who drink heavily.

It is the first stage of liver disease and is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver cells. Fortunately, this damage is reversible if alcohol consumption is stopped.

The second stage is known as alcoholic hepatitis and develops if excessive drinking continues after the onset of steatosis. Mild alcoholic hepatitis induces inflammation in the liver, resulting in progressive damage that can persist for years before developing into the next stage, cirrhosis.

However, acute alcoholic hepatitis can result in liver failure and life-threatening complications in just days. Alcoholic hepatitis is also reversible if drinking is discontinued.

The last stage is liver cirrhosis, a condition in which healthy liver cells and tissue are displaced by scar tissue, impairing the liver’s ability to function correctly. Approximately 10-20 percent of heavy drinkers will develop liver cirrhosis after at least ten years of excessive alcohol consumption, and this damage is permanent.

Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: Statistics

Between 8-10 percent of Americans report drinking heavily, and 10-15 percent of them will suffer an alcohol-related liver disease. Alcohol-related liver disease occurs due to liver damage from years of regular, heavy drinking, and can further develop into liver cirrhosis.

Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: Symptoms

The main symptom for steatosis is upper-right abdominal pains near the liver. Once the liver damage progresses further into acute hepatitis, typical symptoms include fever, abdominal pains, nausea and vomiting, and jaundice. Following acute hepatitis, cirrhosis scars the liver and impairs its functioning, causing symptoms like bleeding of the esophagus, kidney failure, and cancer of the liver.

Alcohol-Related Liver Pain

If you have liver pain after drinking, visit your physician to get a diagnosis. Your doctor will likely perform a biopsy on your liver, as well as a blood test to survey your overall liver function and assess any damage that may have occurred.

In case your physician prescribes total abstinence from alcohol consumption, or if you wish to improve your own liver health, it is a good idea to attend an alcohol counseling program. Moreover, your physician will also likely prescribe a supplementary regimen of vitamins A and B to help your liver repair itself.

Nonetheless, if the liver scarring has become severe enough to impede essential liver function, you will likely require a liver transplant.

Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that has no known cure, but it can be effectively treated using an integrated approach and evidence-based therapies. More severe forms of alcoholism should be addressed in a long-term rehab where patients can be supervised and receive support while they undergo treatment. Milder forms of alcoholism can be addressed in an outpatient format.

Our center employs knowledgeable addiction professionals who deliver these services to our clients with care and expertise. We provide the tools that clients need to achieve sobriety, reclaim their lives, and experience long-lasting wellness.

If you have an alcohol addiction, please contact us as soon as possible. You can restore your sanity – find out how we can help!

Related: Dangers of Alcohol

IBS and Alcohol

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ibs and alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

IBS and Alcohol – Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal condition that that does not appear to cause actual physical damage to the intestines. Instead, IBS is characterized by persistent discomfort, pain in the abdomen, regular episodes of diarrhea or constipation, and a number of problems concerning the types of foods that a person can comfortably consume or activities in which they can participate.

This condition tends to come and go in some people, and when it’s at its peak, it can result in notable functional impairment. It is estimated that the prevalence of IBS ranges from 7-21%.

According to a study (2004) in Clinical Epidemiology, IBS occurs more often in women than men and across all age groups. It appears more in industrialized countries and twice as frequently among those with a family history of the condition.

IBS and Alcohol – Etiology of IBS

The exact cause of IBS remains unknown, though there are several factors that appear to play a role in its development, such as the following:

  • Presence of an overly sensitive large intestine
  • Stress
  • Psychological disorders
  • Bacterial infections
  • Celiac disease
  • Food Allergies
  • Excessive levels of serotonin in the gastrointestinal system
  • Overuse of antibiotics

Although IBS is often diagnosed using specific criteria, there is no formal consensus on exactly how IBS should be defined and what the hallmark symptoms of the disorder are. The symptom profile, however, includes a few ambiguous and subjective symptoms that cannot be identified objectively, such as the following:

  • Pain and bloating in the abdomen
  • Cramps, especially during bowel movements
  • Urgency when having to use restroom
  • Undue strain when passing stools
  • Repeated belching
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Fatigue and lethargy
  • Psychological symptoms such as depression, a lack of motivation, and apathy

Imaging studies of most IBS patients often do not appear to present any significant pathology. Also, symptoms experienced by many patients also tend to wax and wane over time, making it even more difficult to determine the cause(s) of the disorder.

Alcohol Use Disorder

Although the term “alcoholism” is still regularly used, it currently has little or no diagnostic purpose. The contemporary diagnostic term for people who have a substance use disorder related to alcohol use is “alcohol use disorder.” This term is characterized by the dysfunctional use of alcohol that could more specifically be defined as either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, or alcohol addiction.

An alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a mental health condition that occurs when a person’s consumption of alcohol results in a marked impairment or distress in life, provided that they also meet the diagnostic criteria for several specific behavioral symptoms.

Moreover, the former concepts of alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and alcoholism occur as a spectrum of disorders as opposed to being mutually exclusive categories. The diagnostic category of an AUD aims to take into account this modern understanding of the existence of varying degrees of alcohol use, abuse, and dependence.

IBS and Alcohol Use Disorders

A few studies have examined the association between IBS and alcohol use disorders. A study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse (1998) compared 31 patients soliciting treatment for alcohol abuse with 40 others seeking treatment for other medical conditions. A total of 13 people seeking treatment for alcohol abuse also met the criteria for IBS, whereas only one of the 40 patients seeking treatment for other ailments met the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome.

Investigators concluded that people who abuse alcohol might have higher rates of IBS. However, the study could not determine a specific cause, and the question remained: Does the discomfort of IBS compel people to drink more or is a person who drinks alcohol at an excessive level more likely to experience IBS?

Additional research has suggested that there is indeed a relationship between the symptoms of IBS and alcohol use. For example, a 2013 study examined the drinking patterns and their effects on IBS-affected women and a control group. The researchers found that the most substantial relationship between IBS symptoms in patients and alcohol use occurred after binge drinking episodes.

This research does not appear to support the idea that people who have IBS are more likely to develop alcohol use disorders, but rather, that a current alcohol use disorder is a risk factor for developing IBS. These findings are in line with what is known about moderate to heavy alcohol use, in that it can be an irritant to the gut and lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In fact, depending on a person’s level of sensitivity, even one alcoholic drink can be enough to trigger an episode of IBS, and some alcoholic beverages may be more likely to cause symptoms than others.

Moreover, it logically follows that people who already suffer from these symptoms would be more likely to abstain from drinking alcohol to cope with other issues related to stress and depression due to the gastrointestinal condition.

Thus, the general conclusion reached by researchers has been that individuals who already experience symptoms of IBS typically do not begin using alcohol to excessive levels.

Treatment for IBS and Alcohol Use Disorders

There is no known cure for IBS, and treatment often entails the management of symptoms using methods such as the following:

  • Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption
  • Limiting or avoiding caffeine intake
  • Avoiding junk food, including carbonated drinks
  • Antidepressant medications, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
  • Increasing intake of fiber
  • Eating small to moderate meals at frequent intervals
  • Using laxatives for constipation
  • Eating certain foods and taking probiotics and certain medicines to manage symptoms
  • Using behavioral methods to identify which foods worsen IBS
  • Engaging in stress management techniques, such as psychotherapy

Help for Alcohol Abuse

Treatment for alcohol use disorder should begin with a medical detox to supervise people undergoing withdrawals and manage the associated symptoms.

Following a medical detox, patients are strongly encouraged to participate in a formal treatment program for alcohol use disorder that includes behavioral therapy, support group attendance, and other forms of treatment as needed (e.g., family therapy and counseling.)

Individuals often find that their success in addiction treatment is related to the length of time they remain involved a program – in other words, the longer individuals stay active in formal treatment, the better their chances of being successful in recovery.

The program should also include the treatment of co-occurring conditions, such as IBS, depression, anxiety, etc.
People who begin to experience symptoms of IBS and already have a problem with alcohol use should engage in treatment that addresses both of these issues simultaneously.

Attempting to treat IBS without addressing a co-occurring alcohol abuse issue would likely not be a practical approach and wouldn’t significantly alleviate one’s gastrointestinal problems.

Our center offers comprehensive, integrated treatment designed to help patients acquire the tools they need to achieve abstinence and sustain long-term sobriety. We employ professional, certified medical staff and personnel who specialize in addiction and deliver services to patients with care and compassion.

If you or someone you love suffers from an alcohol use disorder, please contact us immediately. You CAN regain the life and wellness that you deserve – find out how we can help!

What is a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?

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Alcohol Assessment | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Substance abuse and addiction often wreak havoc on a person’s life – it can impact them profoundly on many levels, and cause long-lasting damage to the mind, body, and relationships. When drug or alcohol use has spiraled out of control, they may participate in activities that jeopardize the well-being of themselves or that of others.

A drug and alcohol assessment is a tool used by medical and addiction professionals to ascertain the extent of a person’s abuse of substances and determine how to treat them most effectively and achieve the best outcome.

Whether a client’s motivation to undergo a drug and alcohol assessment is due to legal consequences (arrest/conviction of a crime), prompting from concerned family members or friends, or a personal desire to confront substance abuse, seeking an evaluation of this kind can be a catalyst and essential resource on the road to recovery.

Purposes of a Drug and Alcohol Assessment

  • To determine if the individual suffers from drug or alcohol addiction
  • To ascertain the extent of substance use or addiction
  • To identify co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, if any, or polydrug use
  • To determine the extent to which drug or alcohol use impacts a person’s life
  • To present an understanding of the person and their unique circumstances so that the team may set a baseline and design a treatment plan that is best suited for his or her wants and needs

More About the Drug and Alcohol Assessment Process

A substance abuse assessment is an essential first step in determining a person’s needs regarding drug or alcohol abuse treatment. An evaluation consists of gathering biological, social, psychological and historical information that is obtained through interviews and diagnostic screening materials. An investigation of these results should reveal a sharp picture of the person’s substance abuse and dependence.

This information is critical to professionals in making the appropriate professional recommendations, whether it consists of residential or outpatient substance abuse/addiction treatment, therapy or other approaches.

Court-Ordered Substance Abuse Assessment

If a criminal case involves drugs or alcohol, the presiding judge may order a drug and alcohol assessment to be administered by a certified agency. These are examples of circumstances/criminal charges in which a judge might order an evaluation:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI) or Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
  • Drug or alcohol possession (e.g., open intoxicant or minor in possession)
  • Drug trafficking or unlawful distribution
  • Manufacturing or distributing controlled substances
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Public intoxication
  • Using fake identification

During an assessment, which may take up to two hours, clients interview with a licensed professional who is trained and specializes in substance abuse/addiction treatment. He or she will perform a thorough review of a person’s substance abuse, medical/mental health, and social/family history.

This assessment is essential because it can identify if a chronic condition such as addiction is present, or if there is not enough evidence to support that there is an ongoing problem. Regardless, a person may still have to participate in various programs or obligations as deemed necessary by the legal system.

Depending on the incident and sentencing in addition to the recommendations of the evaluating professional, a person may be required to go to one or more of the following:

  • DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program (RRP)
  • Random drug and/or alcohol urinalysis
  • 12 step meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous
  • Drug or alcohol abuse education classes and counseling sessions
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment programs

A Drug and Alcohol Assessment Is a Tool Meant to Foster Success

Alcohol Assessment | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Although a person might feel embarrassed or ashamed and disinclined to be forthcoming about drug or alcohol use behaviors, he should acknowledge that this assessment is being performed for his own benefit. Moreover, an addiction professional cannot accurately develop a plan without knowing precisely where a client stands within a substance abuse or addiction problem.

Indeed, this is the time for a person to be honest about the extent of her substance abuse, as well as any other factors that may influence her drug or alcohol addiction or recovery options. By hiding habits or information, a person is only harming herself and hindering the chance for a full recovery.

Schedule A Drug and Alcohol Evaluation Today

Our center provides clients with comprehensive substance abuse assessment and treatment services. Whether for the purpose of meeting a probation requirement, driver’s license reinstatement, a court appearance, or personal issues, we can help. We use a variety of evidence-based alcohol and drug addiction assessment instruments, and these unbiased, objective tools are administered and analyzed by licensed clinicians.

Recognizing there is a problem is the first step in working toward a resolution, and this is especially true regarding substance abuse and addiction. An assessment is often an eye-opening experience for both clients and their loved ones, as it offers a compelling and undeniable case for the pursuance of sobriety.

Recent Alcohol Statistics

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Alcohol Statistics

Alcohol abuse and addiction impacts people of all ages, genders, races, and walks of life. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), an estimated 88,000 people die each year in the U.S. from alcohol-related deaths. In fact, alcohol continues to be one of the country’s top preventable causes of death, taking second place only to tobacco and a poor diet/sedentary lifestyle.

Alcohol abuse has a significant effect on the entire body, particularly the brain, mouth, heart, pancreas, liver and immune system. Despite its adverse impact, more Americans than ever before in the country’s history consume alcohol on a regular basis.

Understanding the hazards of alcohol use and its effect on society can help you, and your loved ones make healthier and better-informed choices.

Alcohol Statistics and Facts – United States

Prevalence of Alcohol Consumption

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH, 2015):

  • More than 86% of individuals aged 18 or older reported that they consumed alcohol at some point in their lives.
  • 70% reported that they drank in the past year.
  • 56% reported that they drank in the past month.

Prevalence of Binge Drinking and Heavy Alcohol Consumption (NSDUH, 2015)

In the past month, nearly 27% of individuals aged 18 or older reported that in the past month they engaged in binge drinking and 7.0% reported that they engaged in heavy alcohol consumption.

Moreover, at least 65 million Americans report past-month binge drinking, which is more than 40% of current alcohol consumers.

Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

According to NIAAA, alcohol use disorder is a “chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using.”

According to the 2015 NSDUH, more than 15 million adults aged 18 and older – 6.2% of this age group – had an alcohol use disorder. This number includes 9.8 million men (8.4% of men in this age group) and 5.3 million women (4.2% of women in this age group).

Less than 7% who had AUD in the past year received treatment. This stat includes 7.4% of men and just 5.4% of women with an AUD in this age group.

Women and Alcohol Consumption

  • More than 45% of adult women reported consuming alcohol in the past month, and 12% of these reported binge drinking.
  • Around 2.5% of women who consume alcohol meet the criteria for alcohol dependence.
  • Approximately 50% of child-bearing age drink, and 18% of women in this group binge drink (defined as an average of five drinks per binge.)
  • Women who binge drink are more likely to engage in unprotected sex, therefore increasing the risk of accidental pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • Women who consume alcohol while pregnant increase the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome, a condition characterized by mild to severe mental and physical congenital disabilities.
  • Binge drinking substantially increases the risk of sexual assault on women, especially those residing in a college setting.

Men and Alcohol Consumption

  • Nearly 60% of adult males report drinking in the past month, and of those, 23% report binge drinking five times per month at a rate of eight drinks per binge, on average.
  • Men are twice as likely to binge drink as women and nearly twice as likely to be intoxicated while driving or be involved in a fatal traffic accident.
  • An estimated 4.5% of men met the criteria for alcohol dependence in the past year.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption by men increases aggression, thus raising the risk of committing a physical assault on another person.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption is also a common factor in sexual assault and raises a man’s risk of engaging in unprotected sex, sex with multiple partners, and contracting an STD.
  • Men are more likely than women to commit suicide while consuming alcohol.
  • Among men, alcohol consumption increases the risk mouth, throat, esophagus, liver and colon cancers.

Underage Drinking

Frequency of Underage Alcohol Use

  • Nearly one-third (33.1%) of teens of the age of 15 reports having consumed at least one alcoholic drink.
  • According to a 2015 survey by the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), roughly 623,000 teenagers from ages 12 to 17 had an AUD.
  • Of the 623,000 teens, 298,000 were male, and 325,000 were female, representing 2.3% and 2.7% from each 12 to 17 age group, respectively.
  • Around 5.2% of teens with an AUD underwent treatment within the past year, including 5.1% of males and 5.3% of females with an AUD in each respective age group.
  • Approximately 20.3% (7.7 million) of teens and young adults ages 12 to 20 report having drunk alcohol within the past month (19.8% of males and 20.8% of females in each age group).

Frequency of Binge Drinking

According to the NSDUH (2015), an estimated 5.1 million youths (about 13.4%) aged 12–20 (13.4% of males and 13.3% of females) reported binge drinking in the past month.

Prevalence of Heavy Alcohol Use

According to the NSDUH (2015), around 1.3 million youths (about 3.3%) ages 12–20 (3.6% of males and 3% of females) reported heavy alcohol consumption in the past month.

Consequences of Drinking Alcohol Underage

Studies suggest that alcohol use during the teenage years could interfere with normal teenage brain development and increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorder later in life. Also, underage drinking contributes to a variety of short-term consequences, including injuries, sexual assaults, and even fatalities, such as those caused by car accidents.

Teen alcohol consumption kills 4,700 people each year. That’s more than all illegal drugs combined.

Alcohol and College Students

Prevalence of Alcohol Use

According to the NSDUH (2015), 58% of full-time college students aged 18–22 consumed alcohol in the past month compared with 48% of other people the same age.

Prevalence of Binge Drinking

According to the NSDUH (2015), nearly 38% of college students ages 18–22 reported binge drinking in the past month compared with 32.6% of other people the same age.

Prevalence of Heavy Alcohol Use

According to the NSDUH (2015), 12.5% of college students aged 18–22 reported heavy alcohol consumption in the past month compared with 8.5%t of other people the same age.

Consequences—Researchers estimate that each year:

More than 1,800 college students between the18 and 24 years of age die from unintentional injuries related to alcohol use including motor-vehicle crashes.

Also, 696,000 students between ages 18-24 are assaulted by another student who has been drinking, and 97,000 students of the same age reported being the victim of sexual assault or date rape related to alcohol.

Around 1 in 5 (20%) of college students meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder, and about 1 in 4 report academic consequences related to drinking, such as missing class or falling behind, doing poorly on papers or exams a receiving lower grades.

Economic Burden of Drinking

Alcohol abuse cost the United States an estimated $249 billion in 2010, and around three-quarters of the total cost of alcohol was related to binge drinking. What’s more, drinking and driving cost the U.S. $199 billion each year.

Alcohol and the Body

In 2015, of the more than 78,500 deaths due to liver disease among individuals ages 12 and older, 47% involved alcohol.

Among males, nearly 49,700 liver disease deaths occurred and 49.5% involved alcohol. Among females, 28,834 liver disease fatalities occurred and 43.5% were related to alcohol.

Among liver cirrhosis deaths in 2013, nearly 48% were related to alcohol. The proportion of alcohol-related cirrhosis was greatest (76.5%) among deaths of people from ages 25–34, followed by deaths of people ages 35–44 (70%.)

In 2009, alcohol-related liver disease was the main cause of almost 1 in 3 liver transplants in the U.S.

Alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, esophagus, larynx, pharynx, liver, breast, and colon, and rectum.

Alcohol-Related Fatalities

In 2014, alcohol-related driving deaths accounted for nearly 10,000 fatalities or 31% of overall driving deaths.

Alcohol poisoning kills six people each day. Of those, more than three-quarters (75%) are adults aged 35-64, and three of every four people killed by alcohol poisoning/overdose are male.

The group with the most alcohol poisoning fatalities per million people is American Indians/Alaska Natives at 49 per 1 million.

Treatment for Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a devastating and life-threatening disease, but fortunately, it can be effectively treated using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that includes psychotherapy, counseling, and group support.

Treatment programs are available in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient formats. Regardless of program design, professional staff who specialize in addiction help patients by providing them with medical and mental health care, as well as the tools they need to achieve a long-lasting recovery.

If you or a loved one are suffering from alcoholism, please contact us as soon as possible. No one should have to do this alone – we can help!

Living with an Alcoholic

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Living with an Alcoholic

If you’ve been living with an alcoholic, you are probably well-acquainted with moodiness and erratic behavior. You may have tried everything you can think of to help them quit drinking – from dumping their stash of alcohol to threatening to leave if they don’t quit. But nothing seems to work, at least not for very long.

So what options do you have living with an alcoholic? How do you remain in this relationship, despite feeling helpless, exhausted and frustrated?

First, remember that it’s not your fault – it’s not even theirs. No one is to blame for addiction – it’s the consequence of many determinants that include genetics, circumstances, and emotional health. To get any better, they’ll likely need professional help.

What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?

According to NIAAA, alcohol use disorder (AUD) is “a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using.”

Alcohol may not cause significant harm in moderation, but many people who struggle with AUD regularly drink much more than the recommended limit of seven drinks per week for women or 14 drinks per week for men.

High-functioning alcoholics may drink in secret and do their best to hide the extent of their disorder from co-workers and friends. But it’s nearly impossible to conceal it from those who live within the same household. Because only about 1 in 10 individuals addicted to alcohol seeks help for their condition, many families are left to languish along with their loved ones.

During their lifetime, an alcoholic may incur a myriad of health problems ranging from digestive issues to high blood pressure and stroke. Alcohol abuse is the third leading cause of preventable deaths in the U.S., killing an estimated 88,000 people each year. In 2015, nearly 37,000 people died from alcoholic liver disease alone.

Drunk driving is yet another dangerous and potentially fatal consequence of heavy alcohol use. There were more than 10,000 drunk driving fatalities in 2015 to account for a death every 51 minutes throughout the year.

People suffering from an AUD typically have intense cravings when they aren’t consuming alcohol, and find it challenging to stop after they’ve started drinking. Over time, they will develop a tolerance to alcohol, a condition which requires them to consume an increasing amount in order to achieve the same results.

In addition to the aforementioned symptoms, alcoholics may:

  • Drink by themselves to conceal their addiction
  • Experience blackouts
  • Drink at scheduled times and become agitated/irritated if they can’t access alcohol
  • Store alcohol in unusual, secretive places, such as their vehicle
  • Drink solely to get drunk
  • Experience relationship, employment, financial, or legal troubles
  • Experience a loss of interest in activities once deemed important or enjoyable

How an AUD Can Damage a Relationship

While your spouse or loved one may be a kind and considerate person when sober, drinking may turn them into a completely different person. Unfortunately, emotional or physical abuse can (but not always) accompany a person’s intoxicated state. Indeed, of all the reported alcohol-related occurrences of violence, two-thirds happen among close relationships.

This fact means that partners and children who are living with an alcoholic are at heightened risk of witnessing or becoming victims of a violent crime, such as abuse or assault. If your loved one is not physically or emotionally abusive when intoxicated, they may still cause harmful in other ways, such as spending too much free time at bars, frequently missing work or school.

Become able to recognize the signs of a dangerous living situation if it occurs. If you are living in the same home as an alcoholic, ensure you and others in the house are safe and do not tolerate verbal/emotional or physical abuse. If this occurs, either you/your family or the alcoholic needs to leave the situation.

Living with an Alcoholic: Consequences for Children

Estimates show that 11 million children under age 18 have at least one parent with an AUD. While children who grow up living with an alcoholic are known to have an increased genetic risk of developing the disease themselves, many also grow up experiencing serious emotional consequences from their childhood, such as issues with intimacy and trust.

Children of alcoholics may also experience difficulties later in life such as:

  • Problems maintaining stable, close relationships
  • A desire for constant approval
  • Self-loathing and harsh self-judgment
  • Lying for no apparent reason
  • Impulsive behavior without consideration of the consequences

Taking Care of Yourself, Your Family

Remind yourself that you can’t blame yourself for your loved one’s problems and behavior. Be gentle with yourself, as you are probably hurting, and have a lot of anger and resentment as a result of years of disappointment and broken promises.

Once you ensure your family is safe when your loved one is drinking, then consider seeking support in the form of therapy, counseling, or group support. If you have children or teenagers, make sure they have someone outside the family to confide in, such as a counselor. And because their other parent isn’t able to meet their emotional needs, it’s critical that you are willing to listen without judgment.

Stop enabling and set boundaries. Enabling is a common occurrence among family members and friends of those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. Enabling activities include giving money to the alcoholic to buy drinks, buying them for him or her, or even sitting idly by while they drink to dangerous levels.

Unconditional love is a good thing, but if you cater to their desires by purchasing alcohol or ignoring the issue, you aren’t helping anyone, and certainly not helping them get better.

Instead of enabling, firmly set boundaries and stick to them. You don’t have to be insensitive or give ultimatums, but you do have to do what’s right and let the person know that your intention is to stop enabling them out of love, not punishment.

Finally, do not allow the person suffering from addiction to blame you for the things they have done. Maybe you need to leave the house to avoid a confrontation, or maybe you have a friend on the ready to take your loved one to a safe place to “sleep it off.” Just find out what works best for everyone, and be consistent.

How to Confront an Alcoholic and Intervene

When confronting an alcoholic or staging an intervention, choose a time when they are sober (if possible) and do not threaten them. Focus on your personal feelings and concerns and express them in a tone that is compassionate and without judgment.

Initially, many alcoholics will deny their problems and resist attempts to talk about their condition, and may even try to shift the focus of the conversation to you. Be prepared for this and remain calm. Denial often precipitates recovery. Remember, right now you are planting the seeds of change, and you may have to allow time for them to take root.

When staging an intervention, it is best to have a bag packed for your loved one and an addiction treatment center in mind. This way they are less likely to back out after agreeing to go. It’s also beneficial to have a professional counselor or therapist present, as well as a few close friends who will not overwhelm or judge them.

During an intervention, be succinct in your statements and don’t lecture. Be prepared to answer questions about the treatment process. If they are not yet willing to go, don’t force them. Treatment is most effective when the person goes willingly. In time, you can always try again.

Treatment for Alcoholism

If you loved one agrees to treatment, detox is often the first step in the process. Next, clients participate in an inpatient, partial hospitalization, or intensive outpatient treatment program. All three formats include evidence-based, proven approaches to the treatment of alcoholism, such as behavioral therapy, counseling, and group support.

Our center employs professional medical and mental health staff who provide clients with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve sobriety and enjoy long-lasting wellness and recovery from alcohol or drugs. Addiction is a disease that can last a lifetime, but no one should have to suffer in silence or fight it alone. We can help!