The question, “Is alcohol a drug?” seems to be a more and more common question being asked in recent years. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which being that it is legal for people over 21 to drink it. Also, it is easily accessible, and alcohol companies spend multiple billions of dollars on pro-alcohol advertising. However, the reality is that, yes, alcohol is a drug. It is one of the most dangerous and addictive drugs available. The good news is that there are many effective treatment options to help people who struggle with alcohol misuse.
Is Alcohol a Drug?
Yes, as previously mentioned, alcohol is a drug! It fits all of the classic characteristics of a “drug of abuse.” According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “In a medical context, a drug may be defined as any substance used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment, or cure of a disease. In an abuse context, a drug may be described as any substance that alters consciousness and may be habit-forming. According to these definitions, alcohol is classified as a drug in the context of abuse.”
It is also important to understand that alcohol is a very addictive drug. Alcohol is one of the most addictive drugs out there, affecting millions of people every day. One of the reasons that so many people become addicted is that alcohol is legal and readily available. There is also still a stigma that sometimes persists against people who don’t drink.
This addictive nature also leads to alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is classified as a disease, and thus makes the “drug” component of alcohol that much more apparent.
Is Alcohol a Drug? Better Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
AUD affects millions of people worldwide. According to the peer-reviewed thesis Alcohol Use Disorder: Screening, Evaluation, and Management, by Doctors Nehring, Chen, and Freeman, “Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in the United States, with 84% of people 18 and older reporting lifetime use, according to data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Alcohol use exists along a spectrum from low risk to alcohol use disorder (AUD)…. AUD is a chronic disease with significant medical, social, and psychological implications for the patient.”
Many people are under the misconception that AUD is more of a moral failing or some type of “choice.” This is simply not the case. Most medical professionals and addiction specialists agree that AUD has more in common with other chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease than it does with a choice.
It is also important to understand that AUD is a “family disease.” That is because it affects far more than just the individual who is struggling. According to the peer-reviewed journal Social Work in Public Health, “The family remains the primary source of attachment, nurturing, and socialization for humans in our current society. Therefore, the impact of substance use disorders (SUDs) on the family and individual family members merits attention. Each family and each family member is uniquely affected by the individual using substances, including but not limited to having unmet developmental needs, impaired attachment, economic hardship, legal problems, emotional distress, and sometimes violence being perpetrated against him or her.”
The Signs and Symptoms of AUD
Now, while the family may be unfairly affected by a loved one’s addiction, they also have an optimal chance of getting them the help that they need due to their proximity. However, to help, they must first know the signs and the symptoms to look out for. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Negative spending habits aimed toward drinking
- Not being able to stop once starting to drink
- Isolating away from loved ones
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Drinking first thing in the morning
- Missing work or school due to drinking or hangovers
- Negative changes in appetite
- Struggles with sleep cycles
- Feeling anxious and/or depressed
- Expressing hopelessness and helplessness
- Having suicidal ideations
Effectively Treating AUD
Now, while AUD is insidious, the good news is that there are many effective means, methods, and modalities for recovery. These methods include psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
12-Step recovery meetings are also extremely helpful for individuals who are struggling with AUD. These meetings offer unity, serenity, motivation, and accountability. They also show us that we are not alone in our recovery journey. Yoga therapy, mindfulness meditation, and other holistic healing methods can also be highly beneficial.
Our Primary Purpose at Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, our primary purpose is to help anyone who wants to recover do so by any means necessary. We do so by offering individualized, comprehensive recovery plans with a focus on the future.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then the time to recover is now. You can do this! We can help.
Many people minimize alcohol because it is legal to purchase and is so ingrained in everyday life. This does a disservice to people who struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Alcohol is a drug, and it can cause serious damage to both the individual using it and the loved ones around them. If you feel like you or a loved one may be struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about alcohol use disorder (AUD) and effective treatment options, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
