It is a matter of luck for many that some may drink alcohol and never become addicted. For many it is a matter of a genetic predisposition. Some can simply put down a drink and never have one again without any physical symptoms. Others while not physically addicted can become mentally addicted through habit and the ability to walk away is likened to walking away from a bad habit. When we see individuals, physically addicted or not, drink, we still can determine if one drink is too much or not. One does not need to be addicted to misuse a drug, but for some, when can we truly state it is an addiction?
Like a computer game, or gambling, drugs can be addictive to our behavior, beyond just the physical addiction. One out of habit needs to drink. Whether its always after work, or to go to a night club, if one cannot abstain from a drink, then it is a sign of some dependency, either physically, mentally, or out of bad habit. For some it takes less time, but those who face greater addictions, it can be a big issue.
Hence defining what is an addiction for one and not the other can be difficult. Many people exist in the state of need but only need in certain situations. This still can pose an issue, even if it is only here and there. It is also an issue, if one is not enough.
The article, “Alcohol Use: When is it an Addiction?” from the South Florida Reporter states,
“The problem starts when we’re unable to control our urge to drink, even if it doesn’t present a threat to our social life, work, or health status. This is where we need to make a clear distinction between alcohol use, abuse, and alcoholism, which are related but not the same issues. Alcohol abuse is a disorder when a person can’t stop drinking even if it causes problems at home or at work. Alcohol abusers are prone to drinking and driving, even if they are aware of the dangers of such behavior.”
While there are so many clear cut definitions of alcohol abuse and addiction, it is sometimes the more subtle ones that tilt between social norm and addiction. To read the entire article, please click here
Please also review our Addiction Counseling Training Program. The online and independent study program and help train professionals to help others face substance abuse and addictive behavior.