Question

Can you be someone who has two drinks every day and be considered an alcoholic?

Answer 1

I cannot diagnose or make personal judgments about individuals. Whether someone is considered an alcoholic depends on several factors, and it is essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper evaluation.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol use disorder (AUD), which includes alcoholism, as a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences. AUD is diagnosed based on a set of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

The DSM-5 criteria for AUD involve 11 symptoms, and a diagnosis is made based on the number of symptoms an individual exhibits within a specific time frame. These symptoms include:

1. Consuming larger amounts or over a longer period than intended.
2. Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use.
3. Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of alcohol.
4. Cravings or a strong desire to use alcohol.
5. Repeated alcohol use that results in failure to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home.
6. Continued alcohol use despite social or interpersonal problems caused or worsened by alcohol use.
7. Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities due to alcohol use.
8. Recurrent alcohol use in situations where it is physically hazardous.
9. Continued alcohol use despite knowing it causes or worsens a physical or psychological problem.
10. Tolerance, as defined by either needing more alcohol to achieve the desired effect or experiencing reduced effects with the same amount of alcohol.
11. Withdrawal, as manifested by the characteristic withdrawal syndrome or by using alcohol to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

If someone is concerned about their alcohol consumption or its impact on their life, it is crucial for them to seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist. They can provide a proper evaluation and offer guidance on how to address any alcohol-related issues. It's essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and the first step toward positive change.