Degrees of alcoholism

Degrees of alcoholism are usually determined based on how much alcohol affects a person's life, health, and social relationships. There are several scales and classifications that are used to assess the degree of alcoholism, but the most common is the scale based on the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) criteria.

Here is a brief description of the degrees of alcoholism based on the DSM-5 criteria:

Alcohol use disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a clinical condition characterized by problematic or harmful use of alcohol that results in significant distress or impairment in a person's life. AUD includes a spectrum of disorders ranging from lesser (e.g., alcohol neurosis) to more severe forms (e.g., alcohol dependence).

Diagnosis of AUD is usually based on criteria outlined in standards such as DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition) or ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition). AUD symptoms and criteria may include the following:

1. Need to drinkalcohol: Strong desire to drink alcohol.
2. Loss of Control: Inability to control alcohol use or stop after starting.
3. Physical dependence: The emergence of physical dependence on alcohol, which may be manifested by withdrawal symptoms when cessation of use occurs.
4. Tolerance: Increased tolerance to alcohol, where a person needs to consume more alcohol to achieve the same effect.
5. Withdrawal from usualactivities: Withdrawal from participation in usual social, occupational, or recreational activities in favor of alcohol use.
6. Continueduse despite negative consequences: Continued use of alcohol even in the presence of negative consequences for health, work, relationships, etc.
7. Abandonmentof other interests: Abandoning interests and hobbies in favor of alcohol use.

AUD can be classified as mild, moderate or severe depending on the number and severity of symptoms. It is important to see a specialist to assess and diagnose AUD and to get appropriate treatment and support.

Alcohol dependence

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcohol sickness or alcoholism, is a chronic and progressive disease characterized by an overwhelming need for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, physical dependence, and psychological changes.

Signs of alcohol dependence may include:

1. Strong desire to drinkalcohol: The person has a strong desire to drink and often cannot control this desire.
2. Loss of Control: The person loses the ability to control the amount of alcohol consumed and the frequency of drinking.
3. Physical dependence: When alcohol is consumed regularly, the body develops a physical dependence which leads to withdrawal symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome such as shivering, sweating, insomnia, sleeplessness, insomnia, arrhythmia, etc.
4. Tolerance: Gradually increases the need for larger doses of alcohol to achieve the same effect.
5. Denial of the problem: A person may deny or minimize his/her drinking problem without acknowledging that he/she is addicted.
6. Loss of interest in other hobbies: A person may lose interest in other hobbies and activities, preferring to spend most of their time drinking alcohol.

Alcohol dependence can have serious health consequences, including liver problems, heart problems, mental health problems, and social and family problems. Alcohol addiction treatment usually involves a combination of medication therapy, psychological support, and social rehabilitation. If you or someone you love is showing signs of alcohol dependence, it is important to seek help and support from professionals.

Alcohol use disorder currently in remission

Remission means that symptoms of the disorder are temporarily absent or significantly reduced. However, it is important to remember that maintaining remission requires effort and constant attention to one's mental and physical health.

Here are some important steps for maintaining remission of alcohol use disorder:

1. Staying on track: Continue to follow the treatment plan you have developed with your doctor or therapist. This may include regular counseling, taking prescribed medications (if needed), participating in group therapy sessions, and other support methods.
2. Avoiding risky situations: Avoid situations that may provoke you to drink alcohol. This may include going to places where alcohol is freely available, socializing with people who may stimulate the desire to drink, or participating in activities where alcohol is a major aspect.
3. Support from others: Tell your family and friends about your remission status and how they can help you maintain that status. The support and understanding of others can be very important to your success.
4. Develop healthy habits: Incorporate healthy habits into your life, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and practicing stress management strategies (such as meditation or yoga). This will help strengthen your physical and emotional well-being, which in turn will help maintain remission.
5. Seekhelp when needed: If you have any difficulties or doubts, do not hesitate to seek help from your doctor, therapist or addiction specialist. Getting support and advice when you need it can help you avoid a possible return to alcohol use.

Remember that maintaining remission is a process that requires constant attention and effort, but it is possible with the right support and self-care.

It is important to realize that degrees of alcoholism can be different for each person and can vary over time depending on a variety of factors, including the length and intensity of alcohol use, individual differences, and personal circumstances. If you or someone you love has a drinking problem, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional.