These different categories of alcoholism affect individuals differently, with different consequences. Because of this, determining which category an individual may fall under can help massively in the future treatment and management of their symptoms. When seeking help for alcoholism, it may be beneficial for some individuals to determine the category of alcoholic that they, or someone they know, may fall under. Only about a fourth of those in this subtype have sought treatment, usually from specialty treatment programs, detoxification clinics or self-help groups.
The Effects of Long-Term Alcohol Abuse on the Body and Mind
Intermediate familial alcoholics may also have other mental health problems such as major depression, bipolar disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder. Treatment for alcohol use disorder generally consists of medication, therapy, and support. AUD can involve binge or heavy drinking, but some people with this condition do not engage in these drinking behaviors. For some people, simply drinking more than moderate amounts of alcohol can result in an alcohol use disorder. That means a man with AUD averages more than two drinks a day or fourteen per week and a woman with the condition averages more than one drink a day or seven per week.
Intermediate Familial Subtype
Researchers found that about 62% of functional alcoholics work full-time, 3.6% are in school full-time, and 5% are retired. Nearly 26% have a college degree or higher, and the average household income is almost $60,000, the highest among any of the subtypes. Members of this group began drinking at an average age of 17 and developed a dependence on alcohol at age 32. Of the five NIAAA alcoholic subtypes, this group has the highest employment rate, with 68% working in full-time jobs. The problem with this analysis was that Cloninger’s two subtypes were based on a study of 360 male patients being treated for alcoholism in Veteran’s Administration hospitals. Thus the data was therefore not a representative sample of men and women, and it also ignored the 25% of alcoholics who never seek or receive treatment.
- Alcohol is one of the most widely used addictive substances in the U.S., with 84% of adults aged 18 and older having tried it in their lifetimes.
- This type of alcoholic can balance their personal and professional responsibilities while living with addiction.
- In contrast, those in the young antisocial subtype are most often in their mid-twenties, over half of whom have a family history of alcohol addiction.
- They are also the most likely to participate in detox programs at inpatient treatment centers with private health care providers.
- Only about 1/3 of people in the functional subtype seek treatment for alcohol-related issues as they may deny or rationalize their behavior or fear losing their reputation or status.
What Factors Contribute to Alcoholism?
More than 80 percent of this category experience acute withdrawal due to the persistent efforts to cut down, while more than 90 percent continue to drink despite it causing severe health or interpersonal issues. These alcoholics also tend to spend a considerable amount of time using and recovering from alcohol while also experiencing a reduction in productivity due to drinking. This category also reports the highest rate of emergency room visits due to drinking. While different types of alcoholicsof reasons, some may even be oblivious to the f grapple with alcoholism for a variety act that they have a drinking problem.. Nevertheless, no matter the subtype, alcoholism causes long-term issues that can be detrimental to one’s health and relationships.
- Unfortunately, alcohol abuse can lead to a range of negative consequences, including legal troubles and even criminal activity.
- They drink approximately 201 days out of each year and usually consume five or more drinks per sitting.
- They drink frequently and heavily, often mixing alcohol with other substances.
Assessing Liver Health
The most effective treatment protocol involves educating them about the risks and how chronic alcohol misuse can interfere with their life goals. The provider will also help them set goals for reducing alcohol consumption by explaining the difference between moderate and binge or heavy drinking. The smallest subtype is chronic severe alcohol use disorder, comprising only 9% of Americans with AUD.
Does drinking every day mean you have an alcohol use disorder?
Making up just 9.2 % of all alcoholics, chronic severe subtypes are the rarest of them all.. However, those that do fall into this subtype display the most severe symptoms of chronic alcoholism. Most of this group started drinking around 15 years old and find themselves with alcohol dependence at around 29. Out of all the other subtypes, this one rates the highest for abuse of other substances and other psychiatric disorders. Many will suffer from dysthymia, major depression, general anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, phobias, and panic attacks. This group is also most likely to be addicted to multiple substances other than alcohol such as Marijuana, Cocaine, Opioids, and cigarettes.
Through our referral service, we refer thousands of individuals struggling with addiction to the most suitable and effective treatments for them. To learn more about alcoholism, addiction, and rehabilitation, please do not hesitate 5 types of alcoholics to get in contact with Rehab 4 Alcoholism today. Within a group such as this, individuals can talk about the issues they faced while addicted in a judgement-free environment around others who may have similar experiences.
Chronic Severe Alcoholic Subtype
Additionally, they may struggle with guilt and shame related to their drinking, and may be at higher risk for depression and anxiety. The survey also included responses from individuals in treatment as well as those not seeking treatment. Young antisocial alcoholics also engage in binge drinking, heavy drinking, or excessive drinking regularly. If an individual does not withdraw safely, then they risk a host of issues. This can include the development of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) – a broad term that includes multiple severe withdrawal symptoms and can make future rehabilitation a far longer and more complex process (2).
While some young adult alcoholics may be able to quit drinking on their own, many require professional help to address underlying emotional issues that contribute to their alcohol use disorder. Understanding the different types of alcoholics can help individuals and their loved ones recognize the signs of alcoholism and seek appropriate treatment. While each type of alcoholic may require a different form of treatment, the first step is recognizing that there is a problem. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, it is important to seek help and support from a qualified healthcare professional. Remember, alcoholism is a treatable disease, and recovery is possible with the right treatment and support.
- Unfortunately, many of them don’t realize the extent of their addiction until they try to quit drinking and experience withdrawal symptoms.
- In their favor, because this form of alcoholism is easy to spot, young antisocial alcoholics are more likely to seek treatment.
- The functional alcoholic may be good at covering up unhappiness and maintaining an image of success.
- Symptoms within AWS include the development of delirium tremens (body tremors and confusion), alcoholic seizures, insomnia, and a threat to life.
- Furthermore, alcoholism can also lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.