Addiction

What is Chronic Alcohol Abuse?

Diane Carbo

Sep 20, 2023 — 13 min read

What is Chronic Alcohol Abuse?

Chronic alcohol abuse is a pattern of unhealthy and destructive drinking that significantly interferes with the drinker's functioning in life. It is characterized by a physical dependence on alcohol, obsession with drinking, and an inability to stop using despite the serious consequences that may result from it.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines chronic alcohol abuse as “the excessive consumption of alcohol over an extended period of time, resulting in physical and/or mental damage.” While its definition may vary depending on cultural norms, anyone who consumes more than 4 drinks per day for a man and 3 drinks per day for a woman is classified as an alcoholic.

The consequences of chronic alcohol abuse can be devastating, taking a toll on relationships, physical health, financial stability, and overall well-being. The risks of long-term alcohol abuse also increase with age, as the body becomes less able to absorb alcohol and recover from its effects.

The physical consequences of alcoholism can range from mild to severe. They include liver damage, digestive problems, pancreatitis, nervous system damage, and sexual disorders. There is also an increased risk of developing cancer, cardiovascular disease, and stroke.

Alcoholism can have a profound impact on the individual’s mental and emotional health, leading to depression, anxiety, irritability, and violent behavior. It can also lead to social isolation, as the individual withdraws from family and friends.

Chronic alcohol abuse can also have a significant impact on the individual’s career and finances, leading to job loss, financial difficulties, and even homelessness. It can also lead to legal trouble, as a person may be arrested for driving under the influence or engaging in other criminal activities.

Finally, alcohol abuse can cause serious long-term cognitive damage, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse, it is important to get help as soon as possible. With the right treatment, support, and lifestyle changes, those suffering from alcohol addiction can regain control of their lives and begin to experience the joys of sobriety.

Identifying Signs of Chronic Alcohol Abuse

Chronic alcohol abuse is a form of substance use disorder and can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of chronic alcohol abuse so that you can get help for yourself or someone you care about.

Physical Symptoms

People who are suffering from chronic alcohol abuse may experience physical symptoms such as:

Dizziness
Lack of coordination
Slurred speech
Frequent accidents
Poor appetite
Nausea
Vomiting
Weight loss
Fatigue

Behavioral Symptoms

In addition to the physical symptoms, people who are struggling with chronic alcohol abuse also tend to display certain behavioural patterns, such as:

Irresponsible behaviour such as skipping school or work
Lying or making excuses to cover up their drinking
Secretive behaviour such as hiding alcohol in strange places
Avoiding social situations where alcohol is not available
Financial troubles related to spending too much money on alcohol
Engaging in dangerous activities while under the influence of alcohol

Emotional Symptoms

People with chronic alcohol abuse may also experience intense emotional responses, such as:

Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings
Anger outbursts
Isolation or withdrawing from family and friends
Self-destructive behaviours

If you think you or someone close to you might have chronic alcohol abuse, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

The Effects of Chronic Alcohol Abuse

Chronic alcohol abuse, or prolonged excessive intake of alcohol over a prolonged period of time, is not only physically and mentally damaging, but it can also take a toll on those around the abuser. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to a wide range of physical, mental, and social effects, including heart and liver damage, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, financial troubles, job loss, and legal problems.

Physical effects of long-term alcohol abuse can include liver damage, heart disease, malnutrition, and cancer. These physical effects are very serious and can be life-threatening. Long-term abuse can also cause brain damage, such as impaired memory and the development of learning disabilities. Additionally, chronic alcohol abuse can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and stroke.

Although many people are aware of the physical side effects of chronic alcohol abuse, fewer people are aware of the mental effects. Anxiety, depression, and hallucinations are all common mental side effects of long-term alcohol abuse. Alcoholism can also interfere with the abuser’s ability to cope with everyday life. The individual may develop an inability to set goals, make decisions, and solve problems.

Additionally, long-term alcohol abuse can have serious social consequences. It can lead to the deterioration of relationships with family and friends, and can even cause individuals to become isolated from society as a whole. Furthermore, chronic alcohol abuse can lead to financial troubles, such as unpaid bills, bankruptcy, and job loss. Finally, long-term alcohol abuse can lead to legal problems ranging from driving under the influence to assault charges.

Causes of Chronic Alcohol Abuse

Chronic alcohol abuse is an incredibly complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Some people may start drinking due to stress or anxiety, while others may do so due to social pressure or a desire to cope with difficult life events. Other times, people may begin drinking as a form of self-medication for underlying mental health conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder.

It is also true that genetics can play a role. Those who have family members that struggle with alcohol abuse are more likely to develop problems with alcohol themselves. This could be due to behavioural patterns being passed down through the generations, or because of a genetic predisposition to addiction.

Alcohol is so readily available and socially acceptable that it can become too easy to overindulge without realising it. A common problem is when people don’t realise they are drinking too much until it starts affecting their relationships, work life, or physical health.

In addition, alcohol abuse can be perpetuated by people in an alcoholic’s life. If friends and family enable certain behaviours, such as providing money or covering up mistakes, these actions can lead to further alcohol abuse.

Treatment Options for Chronic Alcohol Abuse

Dealing with chronic alcohol abuse is not a simple task. Its long-term effects can cause serious health complications, damage relationships, and disrupt one's entire life. Fortunately, there are many treatments available to help those who suffer from chronic alcohol abuse and support them on their journey to recovery.

Therapy

Therapy is one of the most successful treatments for those with chronic alcohol abuse. Talk therapy can help you learn how to manage stress, avoid triggers, and develop a more positive outlook on life. Working with a therapist may also help you identify underlying mental health issues that contributed to your alcohol use so that these issues can be addressed as well.

Medication

There are also medications that can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with chronic alcohol abuse. These medications are usually prescribed by a doctor and can help reduce the urge to drink and make it easier to remain sober. It is important to speak to a doctor or healthcare provider before taking any kind of medication for chronic alcohol abuse.

Support Groups

Joining a support group is also a great way to address chronic alcohol abuse and stay motivated to maintain sobriety. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where members can share their experiences and struggles, and learn from others who have gone through similar things. There are many alcohol-focused support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), as well as groups specifically for families and other loved ones of individuals with alcohol abuse problems.

Rehabilitation Programs

For those with severe alcohol abuse, residential rehabilitation programs may be the best option. These programs provide comprehensive treatment for alcoholism and can range from short-term detoxification to long-term inpatient care. Inpatient rehabilitation centers provide medically supervised care in a safe and supportive environment, and may include individual therapy, group counseling, support groups, and 12-step programs.

Holistic Therapies

In addition to traditional treatments, there are also holistic therapies that can help those with chronic alcohol abuse. Holistic therapies focus on treating the whole person, not just the addiction, and can include mindfulness meditation, yoga, visualization techniques, dietary and lifestyle changes, and other forms of natural healing.

No matter what treatment option you choose, it is important to remember that recovery is an ongoing process. With the right treatment and support, recovery from chronic alcohol abuse is possible and you can live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life in sobriety.

The Support Available for Those Suffering from Chronic Alcohol Abuse

The path to recovery from chronic alcohol abuse is not easy, but help and support are available. There are many places to turn to when seeking support, and these can greatly assist in the journey of recovery.

Family and friends are often the best source of support. They are able to provide comfort, understanding, and provide a listening ear. They can also be instrumental in helping someone recognize the need for professional help and providing encouragement to face the journey to sobriety.

Support groups are another great source of support. These groups provide a safe and confidential place to share experiences and struggles with other individuals who have similar challenges. Joining a support group can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and provide a sense of community.

Mental health professionals such as counselors and therapists are very beneficial in recovery. A good counselor can provide guidance and support through the process of self-discovery and healing. Therapy can also provide insight into the underlying causes of addiction and help to develop new coping strategies.

Another helpful resource is 12-step programs. These programs are designed to be a supportive environment where members can openly share their stories and learn from each other. The 12 steps also provide a framework for developing a spiritual foundation that is needed for recovery.

There are also sober living communities for those in recovery. These are safe living environments that provide support in continuing the journey towards sobriety. They can be a great source of support for those who are struggling to stay sober in their own home.

In addition to these resources, there are also medical professionals who are specially trained to provide assistance with addiction. These professionals can provide medication-assisted treatment, individual counseling, and other treatments that are designed to help individuals abstain from alcohol and work towards full recovery.

Chronic alcohol abuse not only has physical consequences, but those affected may also experience legal and social consequences. Individuals that live with chronic alcohol abuse can receive criminal convictions for their behavior or be confronted with social stigma as a result.

When it comes to legal consequences, individuals who meddle with chronic alcohol abuse can face charges of driving under the influence (DUI) or public intoxication. These are punishable crimes with varying levels of penalties, including hefty fines, jail time, restricted freedom, and license suspension.

In addition to legal punishments, long-term alcohol abuse can lead to social stigmas. Those who live with alcohol addiction can be judged and seen as irresponsible. This could have lasting effects on their lives, such as the inability to find a job or other negative social implications.

Recovering from Chronic Alcohol Abuse

There is hope for people suffering from chronic alcohol abuse and addiction. With determination, help and resources, it is possible to move away from this difficult situation and live a life of recovery and sobriety.

The first step on the road to recovery is acknowledging the problem and understanding that you need help. This can feel daunting, so it is important to remember the support network available. Seeking support from family and friends, as well as qualified addiction counselors, can make all the difference when it comes to taking those initial steps.

It is also important to eliminate any triggers in the home environment that could tempt someone away from their new lifestyle. This might involve minimizing alcohol consumption around the house or cutting off contact with people who often drink in excess.

The next step is to create a plan for ongoing sobriety. This should focus on alternative activities that can replace drinking, such as hobbies, exercise, therapy or joining a support group. Developing healthier lifestyle habits with regards to food, sleep, and exercise, and surrounding yourself with positive people who support your goals, can help maintaining sobriety become easier.

In addition, it is essential to watch out for and address any underlying mental health issues that may have caused the addiction or may have been exacerbated by it. Treating comorbid conditions is an important part of the recovery process.

Finally, recognizing opportunities to celebrate milestones is important. Celebrations will remind the individual that they are making progress which is essential to staying motivated on the road to recovery.

Coping Mechanisms to Prevent Relapse

Relapsing into drinking alcohol can be very easy, so it's important to have a strategy to help you stay on the path of sobriety. Learning effective coping strategies can enable an individual to get through difficult times when they may have been tempted to relapse, such as during holidays, stressful times, or even moments when cravings become unbearable.

The following coping mechanisms are particularly recommended for those recovering from chronic alcohol abuse:

Negative coping strategies: Coping strategies should focus on replacing negative thought processes with positive and healthy ones, such as reminding yourself why you quit drinking in the first place and why you want to maintain sobriety.
Physical activity: Regularly engaging in physical activity such as yoga or taking walks in nature can help reduce stress levels and provide a sense of peace. Exercise also releases endorphins that can make one feel better and potentially reduce the likelihood of relapse.
Stay connected with support: Connecting with family members, friends, and individuals in recovery is an important part of prevention relapse. Join an online support group, attend alcoholics anonymous meetings, or confide in a trusted friend who doesn't drink.
Create healthy habits: Create a plan for yourself with healthy habits such as having healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and avoiding any triggers. Set short-term goals to motivate yourself and create a sense of accomplishment.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques such as meditation and deep breathing allow an individual to become more aware of their body and thoughts. Paying attention to thoughts that can increase cravings and learning how to respond to those urges in a healthier manner can help an individual maintain sobriety.
Be mindful of triggers: It's important to be aware of potential triggers that can bring on cravings such as certain environments, people, or even places. Find ways to avoid these triggers or build up your resilience to them by slowly and carefully exposing yourself to them.

Though relapse is a common part of recovery, it is possible to achieve long-term sobriety. Utilizing the coping mechanisms mentioned above can help an individual to manage their symptoms and prevent relapse.

Where to Seek Help if Required

If you or someone you care about is facing chronic alcohol abuse, it is essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. It can be difficult to reach out, but there are many resources and support systems available to help an individual or their family members.

Treatment options for chronic alcohol abuse vary greatly depending on individual needs. Typically, medical professionals will assess the situation to determine the best course of action. Treatment could be inpatient or outpatient care, with medication or without. Some individuals may choose to attend support group meetings or utilize one-on-one counseling sessions.

It is important to remember that help is available in several forms. Organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide valuable support and understanding to those enduring chronic alcohol abuse. Other organizations such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer similar services. Additionally, some family doctors can be a helpful resource to provide guidance and advice on how to get the right treatment.

Seeking help is the best way to overcome chronic alcohol abuse. There are many professionals, organizations and institutions ready to offer support and assistance. Individuals do not have to go through this alone, and having the right people to provide emotional and practical support can make a huge difference in recovery and achieving sobriety.

Experiencing a Full Life in Sobriety

Leaving a life of chronic alcohol abuse behind can be challenging, but it also brings with it the opportunity for a fulfilling, healthy life in sobriety. Although recovery can come with its own set of difficulties, such as dealing with cravings, learning new coping skills, and adapting to a life without alcohol, these challenges should not dissuade anyone from embarking on this rewarding path. There are many positive aspects to recovering from chronic alcohol abuse that many people may not think about.

For instance, many people find that sobriety brings a newfound sense of clarity and focus. Without having to constantly deal with the consequences of alcohol abuse, they have more time to focus on things they enjoy, such as hobbies, friendships, new skills, and work.

Additionally, there may be fewer financial constraints and more disposable income when a person is not drinking. By spending less money on alcohol, individuals may be able to budget for vacations or other activities that they never had the funds for before. Furthermore, individuals in recovery have the opportunity to start rebuilding their relationships with family and friends, work on their career goals, and find a meaningful purpose in life.

Recovery does not have to be boring or bleak. There are many options available to those in recovery that may help them lead a full and happy life without the need for alcohol. Exercise, self-care, therapy, support groups, and continuing education are all great ways to stay motivated and learn new skills. Additionally, learning how to build meaningful relationships and make a tangible difference in the lives of others is a great way to contribute to society and reduce feelings of isolation.

Above all, it is important to remember that recovery from chronic alcohol abuse is a lifelong journey. With dedication, hard work, and plenty of support, it is possible to lead a full and healthy life in sobriety.

Chronic alcohol abuse can have a devastating effect on an individual. It can lead to dangerous behaviors, mental and physical health problems, legal difficulties, and other complications. Despite these risks, there are treatment options available that can help those afflicted by addiction to get back to a more stable state of mind and body.

Support is also available for those suffering from chronic alcohol abuse, and it's important to have the right people around to provide emotional guidance and support along the recovery journey. Recovery is never easy, and it is important to understand the potential psychological triggers and be prepared to take steps to prevent relapse. Above all, connecting with peers in recovery or connecting with professionals for help and support can make the road to sobriety much more manageable.

Living life in sobriety doesn't always have to be about avoiding alcohol. With dedication, patience, and resilience, it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life free of alcohol abuse. This may mean that you have to say 'no' to certain situations and find other activities that make you feel happy and fulfilled. Ultimately, success comes with understanding your triggers and having sufficient support to help carry you through the times when cravings hit.

Chronic alcohol abuse can be deadly and should be addressed as soon as possible. Thankfully, there are effective treatments available that can get an individual back to a healthier and happier state of life, and the right support system can make all the difference. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you or a loved one is primarily affected by chronic alcohol abuse.

What is Chronic Alcohol Abuse?

Diane Carbo