What is Alcohol Abuse?

Out of all addictive substances available, it is often said that alcohol is one of the most troublesome. This is because it’s legal and widely available. Unlike drugs like cocaine or heroin, you can obtain alcohol almost anywhere, and if you’re over 21 and have an ID, it’s all above board.

For many who have a propensity for addiction, this presents a terrible situation. In fact, what may hold some addictive personalities back from addiction to drugs like cocaine or heroin is that it’s illegal, difficult to get, and often expensive. Alcohol, on the other hand, is readily available. And when addiction to alcohol strikes, it can be devastating for the individual and his or her family.

What Is Alcohol Abuse and Addiction?

Those who struggle with alcohol abuse generally drink heavily and continue to drink regardless of the consequences. They may begin to see rifts in their family and other relationships. They might even lose their job or get in trouble with the law. Often, health and overall physical consequences don’t slow them down, either.

One thing to note is alcohol abuse and full-blown alcohol addiction are not actually the same thing. In fact, alcohol abuse is simply the first phase to addiction. So, let’s start with the question, “what is alcohol abuse?”

If you’ve ever wondered, “what is alcohol abuse?”, here’s the answer. Someone struggling with alcohol abuse may simply drink to excess far too often. The general health guidelines surrounding drinking recommend that women drink no more than 7 drinks a week and no more than 2 drinks at once. Men can drink slightly more as their recommendations suggest no more than 14 drinks per week and no more than 3 drinks at one sitting should be consumed.

Someone who exceeds these numbers may be struggling with alcohol abuse. Drinking like this for a long period of time or far exceeding these recommendations moves into full-blown addiction territory. Likewise, one key marker of alcoholism or alcohol addiction is the presence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is stopped.

What Are the Top 5 Alcohol Abuse Withdrawal Symptoms?

When someone is addicted to alcohol and stops drinking all at once, uncomfortable and sometimes painful withdrawal symptoms usually appear. There are several symptoms of alcohol withdrawal to look out for. These include the following:

• Nausea and stomach pain
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Shaking and tremors
• Irritability
• Inability to sleep or falling asleep at irregular times

Fortunately, a professional rehab center can help you get through withdrawal with the least amount of pain and discomfort.

Beaches Recovery Is Here to Help

Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, can help anyone who is struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction. We have both detox and alcohol addiction rehab services, as well as the following amenities for a holistic recovery:

• 12-step recovery program
• Hiking therapy
• Non-12 step approach to recovery
• Anger management
• Art therapy
• Equine therapy
• Bowling therapy
• Rope course therapy
• Fitness therapy
• Music therapy

To find out more about what is alcohol abuse and to speak with a Beaches Recovery addiction specialist, give us a call at 866.605.0532. Recovery from alcohol abuse and addiction isn’t easy, but we’ll be with you every step of the way. Start today.