Alcoholism vs. Alcohol Abuse: Understanding the Differences & Seeking Help

You may worry that you have an alcohol problem but might not be convinced that you need help. Even though there is a difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse, both require treatment.

Alcoholism

• The symptoms of alcoholism are a strong need to drink, inability to quit, withdrawal when not drinking and the need for increased amounts of alcohol to get the same effect. You may continue to drink even when drinking has caused repeated problems.

Alcohol Abuse

• You are an alcohol abuser if you cannot enjoy yourself socially if you aren't drinking, you feel that you must have a drink to unwind or you engage in dangerous behavior when drinking.

The Risks

• Risks associated with alcoholism and alcohol abuse include legal troubles, poor job performance, ruined relationships, health problems and unintentional injury.

Treatment of Alcoholism

• Treatment for alcoholism may include counseling and medications like disulfiram, naltrexone or acamprosate. These medications work by making you feel sick if you drink or reducing the craving for alcohol or the symptoms of quitting drinking.

Treatment of Alcohol Abuse

• Treatment of alcohol abuse can also include counseling and medications. There is little difference between the treatments for alcohol abuse and alcoholism.