There are two main types of alcoholism: the alcoholic and pre-alcoholic stages. Alcoholism and pre-alcoholic stages are akin to being on the same drug-treatment program, but there are differences between the two. Women are considered to be at risk for alcohol use disorder if they have more than three drinks per day and seven drinks a week. Men are at risk if they have more than four drinks per day and fourteen drinks a week.

Subtypes of alcoholism

There are many different types of alcoholism. Antisocial alcoholics are a subtype. They begin drinking alcohol at a young age, and report having five to seventeen drinks in one sitting. These people have antisocial personality disorder and are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Approximately one third of young antisocial alcoholics seek treatment for their alcohol addiction. These people also tend to drink alone and exhibit antisocial behavior.

Chronic severe alcoholics are the most advanced form of alcoholism, and constitute approximately 9% of alcoholics in the U.S. Their alcohol abuse results in numerous physical, psychological, and social problems. These alcoholics often abuse illegal drugs, and their social lives are frequently destroyed by their drinking. They often lose their jobs, friends, and family and end up living on the streets. Subtypes of alcoholism are different in their severity.

Signs of alcoholism

Alcoholism is an addiction that leads to numerous problems, from financial troubles to health issues to an inability to control one's drinking. While this may seem like an insurmountable problem, you are not alone. Thousands of people battle this addiction every day, seeking treatment and recovery for their alcohol use. Alcoholism is a complex disease, and different types of people struggle with it. Here are some common symptoms to look out for.

One of the most noticeable signs of alcoholism is the inability to control one's drinking. Someone who drinks excessively often says, "I'm just going to have one drink," but then ends up intoxicated. If you notice a person drinking far more alcohol than they intended, it's a clear sign of alcoholism. While many of these signs may be minor, they indicate that an individual is suffering from alcoholism.

Treatment options for alcoholism

If you are looking for treatment for alcoholism, there are several options. Some of these options include traditional treatment programs, which rely on evidence-based strategies such as psychotherapy, behavioral modification therapy, peer group counseling, nutritional counseling, 12-step programs, and individual therapy. In most cases, rehabilitation begins with a medically-directed detoxification to allow the patient to safely withdraw from alcohol. The next stage of treatment includes structured therapy that helps the patient modify potentially harmful behaviors.

A primary care doctor can assess a person's drinking habits and identify co-occurring disorders. They can recommend treatment options and prescribe medication to help them quit drinking. In some cases, abstinence is the best option for people with alcohol problems. Moderation, however, is often more realistic and is a good first step toward abstinence. Those who have failed to stay sober in moderation may be asked to attend additional counselling sessions to assess their progress and determine whether additional treatment is necessary.

Pre-alcoholic stage

There are two stages of alcoholism: pre-alcoholic and alcoholic. The pre-alcoholic stage is difficult to spot. Many people in this stage drink to socialize, to unwind after a long day at work, or to simply feel more comfortable in social situations. Alcohol use may increase to such an extent that professional help is needed. Listed below are the stages in which a person may reach.

Tolerance - This is the stage when a person becomes accustomed to a certain amount of alcohol. This means they begin drinking more to achieve the mood-altering effects. Because alcohol has a limit, they may no longer feel the effects of alcohol, but they are still impaired in judgment and motor skills. As they continue to drink, their life becomes increasingly difficult to manage and the next level of alcoholism begins.

Functional alcoholics

While a high functioning alcoholic may not necessarily be an alcoholic, the signs of a problem are often similar to those of an alcoholic. The main difference is that a functional alcoholic may not be affected by a physical problem, but may have problems socially or with alcohol. A functional alcoholic may be drinking heavily but may not exhibit outward symptoms of intoxication. If this sounds like you, there is help available.

Regardless of their level of alcoholism, many functional alcoholics live a normal life. These individuals may even have a successful career or a family of their own. These individuals may even have an inflicted mental illness on themselves and those around them. In some cases, alcoholism may even be a result of the alcoholic's job. While the physical effects of alcohol abuse are very visible in some functional alcoholics, they can also have learned tolerances to alcohol.