Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic condition where an individual becomes dependent on alcohol. It is characterized by an inability to control or limit alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. People with alcohol addiction often experience physical cravings, a strong urge to drink, and an increasing tolerance over time, meaning they need more alcohol to achieve the same effects.

Key signs of alcohol addiction include:

1. Drinking more or for longer than intended: You may find yourself unable to control how much or how often you drink.
2. Desire to cut down or stop drinking but being unable to: Even when you want to quit, it becomes hard to do so.
3. Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from its effects: Drinking or dealing with hangovers can take up a significant portion of your day.
4. Neglecting responsibilities: Alcohol addiction often leads to problems at work, school, or in personal relationships.
5. Continued drinking despite health or personal problems: Even if alcohol use causes physical or emotional issues, the urge to drink persists.
6. Tolerance: Over time, the person may need to consume more alcohol to feel the same effects.
7. Withdrawal symptoms: When not drinking, the individual may experience physical symptoms like tremors, anxiety, or nausea.

Alcohol addiction can have severe consequences on one’s physical health (like liver disease, heart problems, and brain damage) and mental well-being (such as anxiety, depression, and memory problems). Treatment options include therapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy), support groups (such as Alcoholics Anonymous), and sometimes medications to help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Some statistics:

• According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 28.9 million people ages 12 and older (10.2% in this age group) had AUD in 2023.
• About 178,000 people die from excessive drinking each year in the United States.
• The World Health Organization reports that more than 3 million deaths each year are linked to harmful alcohol use, accounting for 5.3% of all deaths.
• Approximately 10.5% (7.5 million) of U.S. children ages 17 and younger live with a parent who has alcohol use disorder.
• Research has shown that people who misuse alcohol have a greater risk of liver disease, heart disease, depression, stroke, and stomach bleeding, as well as cancers of the oral cavity, esophagus, larynx, pharynx, liver, colon, and rectum.