What is Alcohol Abuse?
For many people, drinking alcohol is simply a pleasant way to relax. However, for those with alcohol use disorders, drinking can become excessive and dangerous — harming not only themselves but also others around them. This article explains when drinking becomes a problem and how to manage or prevent alcohol abuse effectively.
Khi nào việc uống rượu trở thành một vấn đề?
For most adults, moderate alcohol use — no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women — is generally safe.
A “drink” typically means:
1.5 ounces of spirits,
5 ounces of wine, or
12 ounces of beer,
each containing about 0.5 ounces of pure alcohol.
However, moderate use can easily progress to alcohol abuse hoặc alcohol dependence.
They may have vấn đề về mối quan hệ liên quan đến việc họ uống rượu.
Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol abuse is a drinking pattern that leads to harmful consequences. People may:
Fail to fulfill school, work, or family obligations,
Face legal issues like DUI arrests,
Struggle with relationship conflicts due to drinking.
Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, means losing control over alcohol use. It’s not about the type or amount — alcohol-dependent people simply can’t stop once they start. Dependence includes:
Tolerance: needing more alcohol for the same effect,
Withdrawal symptoms: nausea, sweating, tremors, hallucinations, or convulsions when stopping.
Even mild to moderate alcohol problems can cause serious harm to individuals, families, and communities.
Facts about Alcohol use disorder
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA):
6.2% of U.S. adults (18+) have alcohol use disorder.
1 in 5 individuals aged 12–20 currently use alcohol.
2 in 5 young adults (18–25) are binge drinkers.
About 1 in 10 are heavy alcohol users.
These numbers highlight how common and concerning alcohol abuse remains, especially among young adults.
How to prevent Alcohol Abuse
Here are simple, effective ways to control your drinking habits and reduce risks:
Be aware of the risks. Remember, alcohol is a drug.
Don’t use alcohol to escape problems. It won’t solve them.
Avoid peer pressure. You don’t have to drink to fit in.
Set next-day goals. Commit to responsibilities that discourage overdrinking.
Avoid triggers. Stay away from bars or parties if you’re trying to quit.
Taking these small steps can protect both your mental and physical health.
Psychological support for Alcohol recovery
Psychologists and therapists can help individuals:
Identify emotional triggers for drinking,
Develop coping strategies,
Strengthen self-control and confidence,
Rebuild relationships affected by alcohol abuse.
Combining therapy with social support and healthy lifestyle changes often provides the best path to long-term recovery.
