As a common aspect that is integrated into many of our social events, celebrations, and our media, alcohol is a well-known beverage. However, when used in excess, it can quickly become a dangerous substance that causes health conditions such as alcohol use disorder.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that impairs one’s ability to stop or control their alcohol use. It can include and/or be referred to as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, or alcoholism as a whole. Though there is a lot of information available about this condition, here are the top three things you need to know about AUD.
1. AUD is Common
While it may feel that the number of people with alcohol use disorder is low, it is more common than many believe – especially among adults and teens. According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 11.2% of adults ages 18 and older in the United States had AUD that year, and for teenagers ages 12 to 17, this number drops to 2.9%. That means about 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 33 teens across the nation experience this disorder.
Therefore, if you are your loved one has troubles with alcohol use, you are not alone. There are a variety of resources and programs available to provide the help and support you may need to continue along the path to healing and healthy living.
2. Many Factors Contribute to AUD
There are several factors that can contribute to the likelihood that anyone could develop alcohol use disorder. These include:
- Genetics: While there is no “addiction gene,” studies have shown that those with relatives with a history of AUD are more susceptible to experiencing alcohol addiction themselves.
- Family History: Environmental factors, such as a parent’s drinking patterns, can also impact the attitude one has about alcohol consumption, causing someone who has grown up around large amounts of alcohol to be more likely indulge in unhealthy alcohol use than someone’s whose parents rarely had any.
- Early Use: Adults who start drinking alcohol before the age of 15 are three times more likely to have an AUD as an adult than those who waited until age 21 or later to begin drinking.
- Mental Health: Those with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be more vulnerable to alcohol and substance use than those not struggling with their mental health.
- Social & Cultural Factors: The way friends, significant others, and role models interact with it can also impact one’s perception of alcohol – meaning if the people close to them drink regularly, it could increase the risk of AUD. This is also true for how media portrays alcohol use in movies, shows, and through the lives of celebrities.
Please note that these factors do not guarantee any person will develop AUD, but rather can increase the risk of alcohol addiction. This is why it is important to understand your personal and family history with alcohol and other substances so you can make your decisions accordingly.
3. Recovery from AUD is Possible
Though every person is different and no one treatment will work for everyone, recovery from AUD IS possible.
At ZVHC, we know that recovering isn’t simply about not using alcohol anymore. Holistic recovery is about forming healthy relationships, connecting with others, and learning how to live a meaningful life. That is why we offer a variety of in-patient and out-patient recovery programs that provide personalized care and ongoing support to meet each person’s needs.
For some, this may involve one-on-one sessions with a licensed counselor or our specialty services that include therapy, psychiatry, and medical care. We also offer a variety of group counseling to provide peer support alongside a mental health professional who is an expert in helping people express thoughts, fears, and emotions. Recovery from a substance use disorder such as AUD is a life-long process, but we are here to provide the tools and the support to help you along your journey.
Here at ZVHC, we work hard to provide the healthcare and support needed to help those recover from substance use challenges such as alcohol use disorder so they can continue to live healthy and fulfilling lives. To learn more about our detoxification, drug testing, DUI education, adolescent and adult counseling, or group services, contact us today. Recovery is possible and you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to support you.
In the case of a mental health crisis, please call our crisis line at 844.274.7472, text MN to 741741, or call 988.