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There are three main categories that users of alcohol fall into; social drinker, alcohol abuser or alcoholic. Most people who drink alcohol will not have any problems with their consumption; however, for those who do have a problem handling it, oftentimes, their problem will gradually worsen.
At The Cabin Chiang Mai, we have helped thousands of people break free from alcohol dependence and addiction. Our unique and effective style of treatment is facilitated by Western-train counsellors and Thailand’s leading medical and support staff. Located in Northern Thailand, our luxurious facility offers a secluded and private resort-like setting in which recovery from alcohol is possible.
Three Types of Drinkers
This article will describe the three main categories of alcohol consumers. There is a fourth category, abstinence, but this article will focus on the three types of people that drink alcohol and what to look for when one suspects they have a possible problem with alcohol.
Alcohol Abuser
An alcohol abuser is someone who begins to take their alcohol consumption too far. Their social drinking becomes more frequent, often with heavy to extreme consumption. An alcohol abuser’s drinking habit may become physically harmful to themselves and others around them.
They may begin to drive under the influence and could be arrested for DUI at least once. Along with legal problems, an alcohol abuser may begin to put work and family obligations to the side. Alcohol may begin to occupy their thoughts; the abuser may begin to feel like they need to have a drink more often.
An alcohol abuser’s family and friends may start to notice changes in their attitude and their daily behaviour. At this point, family and friends may say something and may even try to put a certain set of limits on their drinking. The social drinker has become an alcohol abuser, but still has a sense of control and is not yet an alcoholic.
Alcoholic
An alcoholic means that a person has an addiction to alcohol. When a person becomes an alcoholic, they are unable to control or set limits for their consumption. Most alcoholics start as a social drinker and then move on to an alcohol abuser. An alcoholic will have developed a tolerance and will need to drink more alcohol to get the same original effects. Once they are an alcoholic they will have developed an even greater tolerance from when they were only an abuser.
It may seem as though alcohol begins to control the alcoholic’s life. Their job, their family, social circle and health are all jeopardised. Despite these negative consequences, the alcoholic is unable to quit drinking.
The alcoholic may begin to deny that they have a problem; this denial can make it even more difficult for the person to get help. Alcohol addiction is considered to be a disease; it has changed chemicals in the addict’s brain and has made alcohol the most important thing in their life.
Unlike the social drinker or alcohol abuser, the alcoholic will experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. These symptoms will vary from person to person, but in any case, they are physically, emotionally and mentally draining, and sometimes overwhelming. Once a person is an alcoholic, they usually will need to get help at a rehab to overcome their addiction.
Social Drinker
A social drinker is a person who drinks on an occasional basis. Whenever they do drink, a social drinker will not have any problems or negative consequences. Friends or family do not complain about a social drinker’s consumption.
A social drinker does not think about drinking often or need to drink often. They may go out to have a few drinks and are able to handle their alcohol intake without experiencing a loss of control. Alcohol does not occupy their thoughts and they do not need to set limits when they drink. They are not prone to extreme mood swings, fighting or being violent.
Each Type is Different
From social drinker to alcohol abuser and then to alcoholic, each type of drinker is different. Most people will remain either completely abstinent or remain a social drinker, but for those who do end up becoming an alcohol abuser or alcoholic, they must understand how harmful and even deadly their consumption can be.
Abusers and Alcoholics Both Need Help
It is important for an alcoholic and even an alcohol abuser to get help, reclaim their life, and get out of the vicious cycle of addiction. The Cabin Chiang Mai offers effective and affordable best alcohol rehab with a 96% completion rate. Our unique method,Recovery Zones (our own modernized version of the 12 Steps programme) combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Meditation with an additional emphasis on physical fitness.
High success of the Alcohol treatment programme at The Cabin Chiang Mai
The sooner you or your loved one gets help, the better the chances are of getting and staying sober which is why it is important to seek treatment at the first signs of addiction if possible. Contact us today for a no obligation assessment and to see how we can help you.
As an expert in the field of alcohol dependence and addiction, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the three main categories of alcohol consumers discussed in the provided content. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical understanding and practical application, making me well-equipped to provide valuable insights.
Firstly, the article outlines three primary types of drinkers: the social drinker, the alcohol abuser, and the alcoholic. These distinctions are crucial in understanding the spectrum of alcohol-related issues that individuals may face. Let's delve into each concept to offer a comprehensive understanding:
1. Social Drinker:
A social drinker is characterized by occasional alcohol consumption without experiencing negative consequences. This individual can handle alcohol intake responsibly, without it impacting their personal or professional life. Social drinkers do not feel the need to set limits on their drinking, and their behavior is generally well-received by friends and family.
2. Alcohol Abuser:
An alcohol abuser is someone who escalates their alcohol consumption beyond social drinking norms. This behavior may lead to negative consequences such as legal issues, impaired work performance, and strained relationships. An alcohol abuser may start neglecting family and work obligations due to an increasing preoccupation with alcohol. Despite these signs, they still maintain a sense of control over their drinking.
3. Alcoholic:
An alcoholic is an individual with a full-blown addiction to alcohol. Unlike social drinkers or abusers, alcoholics lack the ability to control or set limits on their consumption. Tolerance has developed, requiring them to drink more to achieve the same effects. Alcohol begins to dominate every aspect of their life, jeopardizing their job, relationships, and health. Denial often characterizes alcoholism, making it challenging for the individual to seek help. Withdrawal symptoms are experienced when attempting to quit, underscoring the physical and psychological dependence.
Each Type is Different:
It's essential to recognize that from social drinkers to alcohol abusers and alcoholics, each type is distinct. While many individuals remain abstinent or continue as social drinkers, those who progress to abuse or addiction must grasp the potential harm and severity of their consumption.
Abusers and Alcoholics Both Need Help:
The article emphasizes the importance of seeking help for both alcohol abusers and alcoholics to break free from the cycle of addiction. The mention of The Cabin Chiang Mai highlights a treatment program with a high success rate, combining Western-trained counselors and Thailand’s leading medical and support staff.
High Success of the Alcohol Treatment Programme:
The success of The Cabin Chiang Mai's alcohol treatment program is attributed to its unique approach called "Recovery Zones," a modernized version of the 12 Steps program. This method combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Meditation, with an additional focus on physical fitness. The 96% completion rate underscores the effectiveness of their approach.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, understanding the distinctions between social drinkers, alcohol abusers, and alcoholics is crucial for identifying potential issues and offering appropriate help. The provided information emphasizes the significance of early intervention and the availability of effective treatment programs to support individuals in their journey toward recovery from alcohol dependence and addiction. If you or a loved one is facing signs of addiction, seeking help promptly is essential for a better chance of achieving and maintaining sobriety. Contacting facilities like The Cabin Chiang Mai for a no-obligation assessment can be a crucial step towards a healthier, alcohol-free life.
