Home / Sober living / Symptoms of Alcoholism: Warning Signs & Treatment

Symptoms of Alcoholism: Warning Signs & Treatment

Many rely on structured support like a 12-step program for ongoing sobriety. This group has one of the lowest education levels of any subtype and also has the lowest employment rate. This group drinks more frequently than any other, although their total alcohol intake is less than the young antisocial subtype. Two-thirds of this subtype have sought help for their alcoholism at some point, making them by far the most likely to have done so. They often seek help at self-help groups, rehabilitation programs, and detox programs. They have the highest rate of seeking addiction treatment at an inpatient program and also seek out help from private physicians, psychiatrists, and social workers at high rates.

How common is each subtype of alcoholism?

4 types of alcoholics

Attempting withdrawal may cause tremors as well, so it is important that they be given the appropriate medical attention. Beta alcoholism involves serious medical complications due to excessive drinking. Beta alcoholics usually suffer from liver damage and nutritional deficiency, and may frequently experience blackouts due to severe intoxication. Unlike alpha alcoholism, beta alcoholism does not involve psychological or physical dependence. Not all alcoholics know they suffer from a substance abuse problem because denial is a regular and expected aspect of alcoholism. As exceptions, functional and young antisocial alcoholics are more likely to be aware of their drinking problem.

What causes alcohol withdrawal?

Trauma and mental health concerns, like anxiety or PTSD, are frequently linked. Without proper mental health support, individuals turn to heavy drinking or binge drinking, which only compounds their struggles. These individuals often begin drinking during adolescence, making early intervention a crucial factor in preventing full-blown alcohol use disorder.

Medical Disclaimer

Ethyl alcohol depresses the central nervous system by enhancing the impact of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. The drunkenness caused by alcohol exhibits effects like euphoria, happiness, increased sociability, and decreased anxiety. In higher amounts, it also exhibits impairment of memory, cognition, and Types of Alcoholics motor and sensory functions. Isopropyl alcohol, or isopropanol, is made from propylene gas and has strong disinfecting properties.

  • Functional alcoholics are high-functioning individuals who hide their drinking.
  • Trauma and mental health concerns, like anxiety or PTSD, are frequently linked.
  • Our dedicated team offers compassionate support, ensuring you have the guidance and resources needed to navigate your journey to sobriety and wellness.
  • Each subtype is unique and offers a bit more insight into alcohol abuse.

How to Stay on Track with Your Recovery After Detox

The intermediate familial subtype refers to people with an AUD who have first- or second-degree family members with alcohol use disorders. First- and second-degree family members include parents, siblings, grandparents, and aunts and uncles. Not only do they inherit the genetics of AUD from their relatives, but they also have grown up in an environment that supports alcohol misuse. Results from the 2023 NSDUH show that using drugs while drinking (called polysubstance use) occurs most among young adults, with 5.9% having both drug and alcohol use disorders.

4 types of alcoholics

These mental health issues often emerge during adolescence and can both contribute to and be exacerbated by alcohol abuse. The presence of these dual diagnoses necessitates an integrated treatment approach that addresses both the addiction and the underlying psychiatric conditions. Understanding the unique characteristics of Intermediate Familial Alcoholics is essential for tailored treatment and prevention efforts. Their family history, early drinking onset, and psychological profile distinguish them from other subtypes of alcoholics. The Young Adult Subtype constitutes approximately 31.5% of alcoholics. This group typically starts drinking at around 19 years old and develops alcohol dependence by age 24.