April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to gain more understanding of how individuals struggle with alcohol abuse, offer advice to help those affected, and highlight the serious health issues caused by alcohol.

In today’s blog, we’ll be exploring the basics of alcoholism and alcohol abuse: what it is, how it’s defined, some helpful—perhaps startling—statistics, and a few myths and facts.

What is an “alcoholic”?

You may have heard of “alcoholic” and “alcoholism” as the common names for someone who has a problem with alcohol use. But these terms are not very accurate or helpful for alcohol addiction.

They make alcohol use seem like a simple issue, when in fact it is a complex and varied condition.

There is a big difference between someone who drinks without any negative effects and someone who is addicted to alcohol. The term “alcoholism” does not capture this difference and can make people with real problems think they are okay.

Also, the term “alcoholic” has a lot of negative associations and stigma. It implies that alcohol abuse is a moral failure, not a mental health issue that can be treated and managed. Negative terms like alcoholic can prevent people from recognizing their mental illness.

To describe the different levels of alcohol abuse, most professionals now use terms like

alcohol misuse
unhealthy alcohol use, or
alcohol use disorder

Definition of Alcohol Use Disorder

According to the latest (5^th) edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders—the industry standard in behavioral health diagnosis—AUD is classified by:

Alcohol taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended
Persistent desire—or unsuccessful efforts—to cut down or control alcohol use
Large amounts of time spent obtaining alcohol, using alcohol, or recovering from its effects
Intense craving for alcohol
Failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
Continuing to drink despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of alcohol
Skipping important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use
Continuing to use alcohol despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by alcohol.
Need for increased amounts of alcohol to achieve intoxication or desired effect
The experience of withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking, such as anxiety, irritability, nausea, or tremors

Alcohol abuse statistics

14.5 million Americans aged 12 and older had alcohol use disorder (AUD)
10,511 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving accidents in 2018, which was
29% of all traffic fatalities for the year
385 Americans die every day as a result of excessive alcohol use
10% of deaths among 15- to 49-year-olds are related to alcohol, and alcohol also accounts for
13.5% of deaths among 20- to 39-year-olds
$249 billion is the annual alcohol misuse cost in the United States as of 2010

Alcohol Abuse: Myths and Facts

There are also many myths and misconceptions about alcohol that can prevent people from seeking help or understanding the risks. Here are some common myths and the facts behind them:

Myth Alcohol is not a drug

Fact Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that affects the brain and body in various ways. It can impair judgment, coordination, memory, mood, and decision-making. It can also cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Myth Drinking alcohol is good for your health

Fact While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits for certain people, drinking too much or too often can have negative effects on your health. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver disease, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and other chronic conditions. It can also weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to infections and diseases.

Myth You don’t have a problem with alcohol unless you drink every day

Fact Not all alcoholics drink daily or binge drink. Some may drink only on weekends, holidays, or special occasions. The frequency of drinking does not determine whether someone has an alcohol problem or not. The key factor is how alcohol affects their life, health, relationships, and responsibilities.

Myth Alcoholics can stop drinking if they really want to

Fact AUD is a chronic disease that changes the brain’s chemistry and functioning. It is not a matter of willpower or moral weakness. Quitting alcohol requires professional treatment, support, and coping skills.

Myth Drinking coffee, taking a cold shower, or eating can sober someone up

Fact The only thing that can lower the blood alcohol level is time. Drinking coffee, taking a cold shower, or eating may make someone feel more alert, but they do not reduce the effects of alcohol on the body or the brain. So if you think chugging a pot of coffee makes someone “alright to drive,” think again.