What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol Use Disorder is a medical condition that is characterised by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as “a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.” 

People with Alcohol Use Disorder cannot stop drinking, even though it causes physical, emotional and psychological harm to themselves or others. This disease impacts how the brain functions and requires medical and psychological interventions to control it. Alcohol Use Disorder is a treatable disease and people do recover.  

How much is too much? 

Alcohol Use Disorder is the preferred diagnostic term, however it can also be referred to as alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, alcohol abuse, or sometimes alcoholism. Language is important as there is a continuing stigma that people face when trying to seek help for alcohol misuse. Terms such as ‘alcoholic’, ‘addict’ or ‘drunk’ should be replaced with more descriptive, person-first language, like ‘person with Alcohol Use Disorder’. By changing the way we speak about Alcohol Use Disorder and those that suffer from it, we can reduce the barriers to people seeking help.  

How much is too much? 

The Australian Government recommends that healthy men and women should drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week, and no more than 4 standard drinks in one day. One standard drink contains 10g of alcohol, however many drinks have more than one standard drink in them. Always check the label on the bottle or container to see how many standard drinks it contains. 

As a guide, a small glass of white wine (150ml) is approximately 1.4 standard drinks, and a bottle of wine can contain between 6-8 standard drinks. A 375ml can of full strength beer is 1.4 standard drinks. You can use an online calculator to understand your alcohol consumptions, such as the Drinks Calculator or the Standard Drink Calculator. 

However, the World Health Organisation has found that there is no level of alcohol consumption that is safe for our health, stating:

Alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance and has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago – this is the highest risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation and tobacco.

World Health Organisation

Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder can manifest in various signs and symptoms that may indicate a person is struggling with their alcohol consumption. Some common signs to look out for include:

1. Increased Tolerance: Needing to drink more alcohol to feel the same effects as before.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms when alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped.
3. Loss of Control: Inability to limit or stop drinking once started.
4. Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritising drinking over work, family, or social obligations.
5. Continued Use Despite Consequences: Drinking despite knowing it is causing or worsening physical or mental health issues.
6. Changes in Behaviour: Mood swings, irritability, secrecy, or hiding alcohol consumption.
7. Cravings: Strong urges or desires to drink alcohol.
8. Social Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities that don’t involve alcohol.

Withdrawal symptoms 

Withdrawing from alcohol can be extremely dangerous and sometimes fatal if not closely managed by a healthcare professional. Mild withdrawal symptoms can start as early as 6 hours after your last drink. These can include: anxiety, headaches, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, sweating and shakes. 

About 12-24 hours after your last drink more serious symptoms can begin, such as hallucinations and seizures. Delirium Tremens (DTs) is a severe withdrawal symptom that can begin 2-3 days after suddenly stopping drinking and is more likely to happen if you have moderate or severe alcohol use disorder. Delirium Tremens can lead to heart attack, stroke and even death if not treated quickly. 

How to get help? 

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before significantly reducing or stopping drinking altogether. A medicated detox overseen by a healthcare professional is a safe way to withdrawal from alcohol and minimise your symptoms. 

If you are considering withdrawing from alcohol, AIR Detox can help you do that safely and discreetly from the comfort of your own home using our evidence-based program. Contact us today to find out how we can help you take control of your recovery.