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Medically Reviewed by Julie Bilbrey
Last Updated on:
September 10, 2024
Alcoholism can quickly take control of your life. Call us now to speak to an addiction expert.
If you’re wondering whether your drinking habits have crossed the line into alcoholism, you’re not alone. Taking an “Am I an Alcoholic Quiz” can help you assess whether your alcohol use has reached a problematic level.
This quiz is designed to guide you through key signs and symptoms of alcoholism, giving you insight into whether it’s time to seek help.
Alcoholism, or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic disease characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite harmful consequences.
It often involves physical dependence on alcohol, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms when not drinking. AUD can range from mild to severe, but even mild cases can escalate over time without intervention.
The DSM-V helps diagnose people that have AUD with a list of 11 symptoms. How many of these symptoms a person has experienced in the past 12 months will indicate if they are suffering from alcohol use disorder.
There are several signs that may indicate AUD:
Heavy drinking refers to consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period. For men, this is defined as more than four drinks on any single day or more than 14 drinks per week. For women, it’s more than three drinks in a day or more than seven drinks per week.
While heavy drinking can increase the risk of developing alcohol-related problems, it does not necessarily mean someone is an alcoholic. Alcoholism, on the other hand, involves a loss of control over alcohol consumption and a compulsive need to drink, even when it causes harm.
Key differences of heavy drinking vs alcoholism include:
Recognizing the warning signs of alcoholism and taking our “Am I An Alcoholic” Quiz is crucial to taking action before the situation worsens. The severity of alcohol use disorder depends on the individual, including the number of symptoms and intensity of the symptoms. Below are common indicators that may suggest a problem with alcohol:
There are both short-term and long-term risks associated with alcohol consumption, especially when drinking becomes excessive or chronic.
If someone is dependent on alcohol, stopping or reducing intake can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
These symptoms vary in severity but can become dangerous if not managed properly. Most often, withdrawal symptoms can show up as soon as six hours after the last drink has been consumed.
Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
It’s important to know that alcohol detox without supervision can cause life-threatening symptoms and most often professional help is needed to monitor vital signs.
Professional detox is always recommended to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. If you’re questioning whether or not you may be an alcoholic, take our “Am I An Alcoholic” quiz.
Chronic alcohol use impacts multiple systems of the body. The long-term effects of alcohol abuse are often severe and can be life-threatening.
Several factors contribute to the development of alcohol dependence, including:
Alcoholics can be categorized into different types based on their drinking behaviors and how deeply alcohol impacts their lives. These types include:
Treating alcoholism is a multi-step process, and different levels of care are available depending on the severity of the condition and results of the Am I an Alcoholic Quiz. The most effective treatments for alcoholism include:
Alcohol detox is often the first and most vital step in recovery. Detox helps the body safely rid itself of alcohol while managing withdrawal symptoms. Medical supervision is often required. Medications are provided if clinically appropriate to help individuals comfortably manage withdrawal symptoms. During detox, medical professionals provide 24/7 physical and emotional support.
Inpatient rehab provides a safe and comfortable environment once detox is complete. During inpatient rehab, individuals meet with therapists daily and weekly, psychiatrists, and doctors to help understand root-cause issues, maladaptive coping mechanisms and identify new coping skills.
Partial Hospitalization Programming is the highest form of outpatient treatment. PHP provides daily treatment for the duration of the day and allows individuals to return home or to a structured sober living program during the evening. PHP is often used as a step-down form of care once detox and inpatient treatment has been completed. In PHP clients partake in daily group therapy, weekly individual therapy, and routine visits with a psychiatrist or medical director.
Intensive Outpatient Program is an intensive form of outpatient treatment that allows individuals to continue with daily responsibilities such as school or work while still attending treatment. During IOP, clients either live at home or a structured sober living environment. IOP is often used as a step-down of care from a PHP or Inpatient program.
Outpatient rehab is a more flexible treatment options for those who do not require intensive monitoring. Outpatient rehab still provides therapy, counseling, and support while allowing patients to live at home.
Did you know most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover most of the costs associated with our program? Click below to find out your coverage and treatment options for our addiction treatment in Nashville.
Nashville Treatment Solutions is a mental health and addiction treatment program in Nashville, Tennessee using evidence-based principles with trauma-informed modalities.