Difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse
alcoholism vs alcohol abuse:
It is generally believed that nothing should be practiced in excess and this is true even to alcohol. When one speaks of alcoholism and alcohol abuse, it is often assumed that they are two terms which are indeed utilized for the same phenomena and yet, this is not true. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are indeed interrelated and yet, they are in no way synonymous.
What is alcoholism?
Coined by a Swedish physician named Magnus Huss in the year 1849, the term alcoholism which replaced the term Dipsomania which stood for the intense craving for alcohol, was once again changed to the term “alcohol dependence” by the World Health Organization in the year 1980. This condition is characterized by the high tolerance and physical dependence upon alcohol, loss of control over drinking habits and a constant craving for alcohol which results in withdrawal symptoms.
What is alcohol abuse?
Alcohol abuse can be best defined by the misuse or the overuse of alcohol to the point it being detrimental to one’s work, family life, finances and even social relationships. It is a diagnostic term which refers to the above kind of repetitive behavior and it can even lead a person to the point of committing suicide if he or she had been depressed as well. Alcohol abuse can lead to alcohol dependency or alcoholism and the person may commence being dependant on alcohol, physically and mentally from then onwards.
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism?
While drinking makes an integral part in many cultures worldwide, the symptoms and conditions which define alcoholism and alcohol abuse may vary. And yet, alcoholism and alcohol abuse do have their differences which may be common to all. Alcoholism or alcohol dependence can be defined as the constant craving or the thirst for alcohol at the same time, developing a physical dependency upon it. Yet alcohol abuse signifies the misuse and the overuse of alcohol to the point it being detrimental to one’s health, family, finances and even social relationships.
The symptoms of alcoholism and alcohol abuse are different as well. The signs of alcohol abuse would be listed down as repeatedly neglecting one’s responsibilities at home, work, or school because of drinking, use of alcohol in situations where it’s physically dangerous such as driving, etc, experiencing legal problems because of alcohol, use of alcohol as a means of relaxing or de-stressing, easily irritated, continuation of the usage of alcohol even when it is causing problems to health, relationships, etc. The symptoms of alcoholism could be listed as alcohol tolerance, loss of control over drinking, depression, loss of energy and focus, withdrawal, etc.
Once these symptoms present themselves, it is advisable to seek help as these conditions may develop in to more serious affairs and can potentially ruin one’s life. It is highly likely that alcohol abuse may eventually lead to alcoholism or alcohol dependency. Therefore, once symptoms of alcohol abuse manifests themselves, it is advisable to seek professional help which could potentially save a life.
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