To some in the Alcoholics Anonymous world, alcoholism is a disease. To others, such as researchers in the journal Alcohol, alcoholism is an inheritable trait activated by internal emotional and psychological struggles.

Broadly speaking, alcoholism can be defined by meeting three criteria:

#1- A Mental Obsession

Defined as a phenomenon of craving, meaning that an individual with an addiction has a mental obsession, meaning the brain is wired in a way that will become obsessed with finding ways to get drunk, and stay drunk.

#2- A Physical Allergy

Simply put, once alcohol is ingested the alcoholic is not able to stop using. They mind and body have an adverse allergic reaction that makes it nearly impossible to stop drinking. It leaves the alcoholic “wanting more.”

#3- A Spiritual Malady

In short, the spiritual malady is the feeling often described as having a void that can never seem to be filled, without the use of chemicals.

What are the signs of drinking too much alcohol?

If you find yourself struggling to stop drinking when you have commitments, engagements, or drinking in social situations where it may not be acceptable this could be a sign of issues with drinking.

Furthermore, if you find yourself not being able to stop drinking, despite several attempts there is a good chance that you may have a substance use disorder and should speak to a medical professional for further evaluation.

You may also consider reading this website from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism for more signs and symptoms.

Is drinking by yourself a sign of alcoholism?

It may be, but it is important to understand your drinking in context according to research in the Contemporary Directions of Psychological Science. Drinking is a problem if it causes trouble in your relationships, in school, in social activities, or in how you think and feel. If you are concerned that you might have a drinking problem, consult your personal health care provider.

Is it ok to drink every night?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, moderate alcohol consumption is defined as having up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men. This definition refers to the amount consumed on any single day and is not intended as an average over several days.

However, the Dietary Guidelines do not recommend that people who do not drink alcohol start drinking for any reason.

Can a doctor tell if you drink alcohol?

Yes, Excessive drinking both in the form of heavy drinking or binge drinking, increase the risk of numerous health problems, including:

● Chronic diseases such as liver cirrhosis (damage to liver cells); pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas); various cancers, including liver, mouth, throat, larynx (the voice box), and esophagus; high blood pressure; and psychological disorders.

● Unintentional injuries, such as motor-vehicle traffic crashes, falls, drowning, burns, and firearm injuries.

● Violence, such as child maltreatment, homicide, and suicide.

● Harm to a developing fetus if a woman drinks while pregnant, such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

● Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

● Alcohol use disorders.

Physical Signs of Alcoholism

Am I an alcoholic if I drink a bottle of wine every night?

A standard drink is 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol content) according to the Centers of Disease Control. The recommended daily consumption per the CDC is 1 drink for women, and 2 for men. A standard bottle of wine is 25oz.

A bottle of wine is well over the recommended amount of alcohol per night, and is a sign of problematic drinking patterns. It does not necessarily mean you are an alcoholic, but you likely have problems with alcohol.

Why do people get angry when drunk?

Not everyone gets angry when they drink. However, as researchers in the journal

What is Alcoholism? Am I an Alcoholic?

What is alcoholism and how does someone know if they are an alcoholic?

Alcohol abuse and alcoholism are serious concerns. So, it’s important that you equip yourself with the right information.

Below are some of the most common questions asked about consuming alcohol and alcoholism.

Table of Contents

What defines alcoholism?