Alcoholism: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism, clinically known as alcohol use disorder, is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative consequences. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, AUD is a brain disorder that can range from mild to severe.[1]

The DSM-5 outlines 11 criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder, including drinking more or longer than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, spending significant time obtaining or recovering from alcohol, cravings, failure to fulfill responsibilities, continued use despite social or interpersonal problems, giving up activities, using alcohol in hazardous situations, continued use despite physical or psychological problems, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.[2]

Healthcare providers diagnose mild AUD when 2-3 criteria are present, moderate AUD with 4-5 criteria, and severe AUD when 6 or more criteria are met. This spectrum reflects that alcohol problems are on a continuum—you don’t have to “hit rock bottom” to have a drinking problem that requires attention.

Why Do People Become Alcoholics?

Understanding the reasons for excessive drinking and developing an alcohol addiction is complicated. There are a number of reasons that individuals select alcohol for self-medicating purposes:

• Genetic Predisposition: Those with family histories of AUD are at 3-4 times greater risk to develop their own alcohol related issues.[3]
• Mental Health Disorders: Many people use alcohol to self-medicate for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other behavioral health issues. Unfortunately, while alcohol may provide temporary relief, it typically worsens the underlying disorder.
• Environmental and Social Factors: Factors such as early initiation of drinking, peer pressure, cultural attitudes towards drinking, and stressful life events can substantially impact drinking patterns. Experiences of trauma or abuse during childhood can increase the risk of developing problematic drinking.
• Brain Chemistry Changes: People who regularly consume large amounts of alcohol will begin to change how the brain operates.[4] Alcohol will negatively impact an individual’s neurotransmitters, including GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), resulting in relaxation and positive feelings. This can lead to a complete mental dependency on alcohol, making it extremely difficult to cease using without professional help.
• Ease of Access: Unlike illicit substances, alcohol is legal, easily accessible, and socially acceptable. This makes it easier for many people to develop problematic drinking habits without recognizing the extent of their issues.

Understanding these risk factors isn’t about assigning blame—it’s about recognizing that alcohol addiction is a treatable medical condition, not a moral failing or lack of willpower.

What Are Signs of Alcohol Addiction?

How Many Alcoholics Recover?

Recovery rates vary, but research shows that with appropriate treatment, many people achieve long-term sobriety. According to studies, about one-third of people treated for alcohol use disorder remain abstinent one year later, and those who remain sober for a year are much more likely to maintain long-term recovery.[5]

The challenge is that only about one in ten people with AUD seek treatment, according to NIAAA data.[6] Many factors prevent people from getting help, including stigma, denial, lack of access to care, and not recognizing the severity of their drinking problem.

The good news is that treatment works. People who complete structured treatment programs like the one offered by Agape Treatment Center and stay connected to ongoing support have significantly better outcomes than those who try to quit on their own. The longer someone stays in treatment and the more comprehensive their care, the better their chances of lasting recovery.[7]

Facts about alcoholism recovery also show that relapse doesn’t mean failure. Between 40-60% of people in recovery experience at least one relapse, but this is viewed as part of the recovery process rather than treatment failure.[8] Each attempt at sobriety provides learning opportunities and increases the likelihood of eventual success.

If you or someone else has shown the above signs of alcoholism, do not procrastinate getting support. Alcoholism progresses and generally gets worse over time without help. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chance of rebuilding your life.

Below are the following ways you can get help for yourself or someone you love:

• Speak with a Professional: Speak with your doctor or a healthcare professional who can provide assessments and referrals.
• National Helpline: You can contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential information 24/7.
• Agape Support: Our experienced team provides a no-judgment assessment and creates a personalized treatment plan for your unique needs.

At Agape Treatment Center, we understand how difficult it is to admit you need help. Our compassionate team provides judgment-free assessment and creates individualized treatment plans based on your specific needs. We work with most insurance providers and can verify your coverage before you begin treatment.