Alcohol Misuse vs Alcohol Abuse vs Addiction or Alcoholism
There are distinct differences regarding misuse, drug abuse, and addiction. Let’s highlight the main characteristics of each of these elements.
Misuse of Alcohol
Alcohol misuse includes the following characteristics:
- Occasionally having too much to drink
- Certain occasions when drinking happened at the wrong time
- Experiencing negative or challenging situations with peers during a drinking session
- Becoming intoxicated to the point of forgetting certain events
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse is when someone deliberately consumes alcohol to become drunk each time. Abuse includes the following scenarios:
- Using alcohol to combat certain feelings or negative conditions
- Overusing alcohol each time you consume
- Drinking solely to become intoxicated
Alcohol Addiction (Alcoholism)
Alcohol addiction is the most severe in terms of disorders. Addiction is a mental condition that manifests as the uncontrollable use of alcohol. These are the following characteristics of addiction:
- Relying on the daily consumption of alcohol to function
- Experiencing withdrawal when alcohol isn’t consumed
- Experiencing anxiety when alcohol isn’t present
- Denying a problem exists
- Allowing alcohol to damage important dynamics in life
- Choosing alcohol over important obligations
- Underlying mental conditions associated with an abuse disorder
When considering an intervention, the worst elements and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and abuse disorder could be avoided by taking action during the abuse phase. Individuals can even be pulled aside to discuss habits during the misuse phase as well.
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Blood alcohol levels are used to monitor the concentration of alcohol in an individual’s system. Noting blood alcohol levels in individuals with abuse disorder may provide insight into the severity of the alcohol use disorder itself.
Blood Alcohol Levels
- Sober: 0.0
- Legally Intoxicated: 0.08 (Three drinks)
- Very impaired: 0.08-0.40 (Three to ten drinks)
- Serious complications: Above 0.40 (Ten drinks and above)
When an individual constantly exhibits BAC levels at a very impaired level or higher, it’s important to seek treatment or plan an intervention. At this level, there is a serious potential for health risks and the chance of a challenging detox period. After a significant amount of time of daily BAC levels within this range, the body gets used to functioning only in the presence of alcohol.
A Full Spectrum of Post-Intervention Services
After an intervention, the individual has to decide between a couple of options. Deciding between medically-assisted detox and at-home detox is crucial for the start of recovery.
However, detox is only the beginning of rehabilitation and recovery. After completing the process of physical detox, the choice between inpatient and outpatient rehab is crucial.
Both versions of these substance abuse treatment programs have their benefits and drawbacks. Inpatient rehabs provide a more controlled environment, focusing on an atmosphere that promotes recovery and various types of abuse disorders. However, participating in one of these programs also means taking time off work, finding a location, and rearranging your schedule to accommodate your time away.
Outpatient rehab provides clients the opportunity to maintain a normal work and home life. Normally, clients are required to travel to a treatment facility to participate in rehab services. The chances of temptation and relapse are higher because of the lack of a controlled environment. It takes a strong support system and high amounts of willpower to become successful in outpatient rehab.
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Aftercare and Crucial Planning for Long Term Recovery
Regardless of the specific type of treatment program selected, the actions taken after completion are as crucial as the initial decision. Aftercare services and post-treatment options always give clients higher chances of successfully remaining in recovery.
Options for post-treatment include maintaining regular visits with a primary care physician and mental health counselor. Additionally, participation in peer counseling sessions like Alcoholics Anonymous or any other 12-step program keeps clients engaged in recovery.
Alcohol detox may be a temporary occurrence, but recovery and sobriety require a lifetime of attention. Even after the temporary physical and mental symptoms of detox and withdrawal subside, it takes a conscious and daily effort to fight the temptation to drink alcohol.
Reach Out for Support with Alcohol Detox and Recovery
Individuals with substance and alcohol dependence or abuse disorder will have the disorder for a lifetime. However, success or failure is dependent on whether or not they are actively using. The choice to remain abstinent is not easy and requires a level of strength that anyone should be proud of.
Contact our Admissions staff if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse disorder. We have years of experience assisting individuals with finding the right setting for alcohol detox and providing a holistic approach to inpatient rehab afterward, so please reach out now!