3 Common Questions About Alcohol Addiction or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Millions of people are coping with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) worldwide, but the stigma still remains. It can be difficult for many of us to openly voice our concerns along the path to recovery or ask questions about Addiction. Through this blog, we aim to create a safe space for anyone coping with AUD or trying to support a loved one in their journey.

Continue reading about the 3 common questions on Alcohol Addiction.

Also read: What is the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol addiction?

Is alcoholism or drug addiction a disease or a failure of will?

No - Alcohol Use Disorder is a recognised mental health disorder, just like any other.

Alcohol Use Disorder, commonly referred to as Addiction, is not something that can be effectively managed simply by your will. It is a listed disorder and those coping with it need interventions like support groups, psychotherapy, or medication.

If you are worried about confiding in your provider about illicit drug use, be rest assured that therapist-client interactions are highly confidential - bound by ethics and laws.

So it is completely okay and, in fact, encouraged to discuss your drug use or any other factor that affects your wellness. A therapist’s approach is to be non-judgmental and empathetic, and provide a safe space to discuss any concerns affecting your health. 

Also read: How to Overcome Your Nicotine Addiction: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is Alcohol Addiction more psychological or physiological?

Alcohol Use Disorder has a combination of both psychological and physiological symptoms.

While referring to any kind of Addiction, physiological symptoms are of two kinds. 

1. Tolerance - Having a need for more quantities of the drug is a result of developing a tolerance to it. In such a case, increasing the amount of drug to get the same effect again is a risk factor for Addiction.
2. Withdrawal symptoms - After stopping the use of the drug, one experiences physiological symptoms like a state of confusion, perhaps delirium and even seizures.

Also read: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome: All You Need To Know

In the psychological model, there are several risk factors for Addiction. For example, one may be facing challenges with life skills like problem-solving, difficulty in coping with stress or distress or being unable to understand or process one's emotions. This can be effectively addressed in therapy sessions.

Can I prevent drug and Alcohol Addiction?

Yes, it is absolutely possible.

There are many strategies to prevent drug and Alcohol Addiction as a community member, a family member and by yourself.

Also read: Navigating the New Year in Addiction Recovery: 3 Tips for Preventing Relapse

At the individual level, the first step to preventing Addiction is to reflect on why you feel dependent on a substance. Discussing your dependence or certain hidden issues can be done in therapy, with the guidance of a trained and trusted professional. This will teach you coping methods and skills that can prevent you from relying on substances to cope with difficult situations in the future.

As a family member, you can teach your loved ones refusal skills to help them manage peer-pressure situations. Practising consent in other situations within the family will also encourage each family member to create a safe space for others coping with SUD.

Also read: Spotting the Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction in Yourself or a Loved One

As a community member, it is important to ensure that if somebody decides to use substances, they are fully aware of what substance they are using & their consequences. This knowledge can help the person make an informed decision in the moment, and perhaps even reduce the harm done - so that there are minimal consequences on their physical or mental health.

A note from Amaha's Clinical Team:

If you are looking to get started on your journey to recovery, here is what you can expect from the first stage of your journey:

1. Consultation with a psychiatrist - part of a multidisciplinary team managing substance use together with you at Amaha.
2. Thorough evaluation & assessment - to provide an evidence-based diagnosis, rooted in your current symptoms and concerns.
3. Discussion on the way forward - to formulate a management plan along with you. Recovery often needs more than medication, so we often suggest long-term therapy support.

We are here for you - please reach out.