Classifying The Subgroups Of Alcoholics

by Bridget on April 16, 2012

If you or someone you know is an alcoholic, it is imperative for that person to seek a medical intervention as quickly as they can. Alcohol abuse can have very serious health consequences. If a person does not get help, they could develop many different health issues. One of the most effective ways to get help for an addiction to alcohol is to find an alcohol treatment detox center. There are many different rehab facilities around the country that are able to help those struggling with alcoholism. By seeking a medical intervention, it is possible a person can take their lives back from the pains of alcoholism.

Definition

In the medical community, alcoholism is defined as a neurological disorder rather than a disease. Whatever it is called, it can be agreed upon that alcoholism is a very destructive habit that can ruin an individual’s life. If you are struggling with alcohol abuse, you could be putting your body in great danger. Alcoholism is defined by a person who has an uncontrollable consumption of alcoholic beverages. It can affect many different aspects of a person’s life.

Studies

 

According to researches this group makes up about thirty-two percent of alcoholics within the United States. They are young adults who tend not to seek help or treatment for their alcohol abuse. They are about 24 years old however their issues started around the age of 20. They actually drink less frequently than other alcoholics, but when they do they binge drink.

Young Alcoholics

More than half have an antisocial personality disorder. The average onset of drinking was around 15years of age. They are also more likely to smoke tobacco and pot. This subtype does not overlap with the young adult subtype. About twenty one percent of alcoholics are classified as the young antisocial subtype. This subtype includes those young adults around twenty-six years old.

Functioning Alcoholics

 

The functional subtype makes up around nineteen percent of alcoholics within the United States. These functioning alcoholics tend to be middle aged and have stable relationships as well as being gainfully employed. They have high incomes than other alcoholics. They will drink every other day consuming more than five drinks a day.

 Intervention

 

Without an intervention and alcohol detox, it is nearly impossible for people in this group to stop drinking. One of the rarest subgroups of alcoholism is called the chronic severe subtype. It is comprised of men who have a very high divorce rate. Also, people who fall into this subgroup usually have additional addictions to drugs or gambling. These are the people who are in the most danger when it comes to alcohol abuse. They could already have serious health concerns.

Things To Remember

It is important to note as well that although some subtypes may function better than others any dependence on alcohol is dangerous and will have severe consequences. The research also noted that in addition to suffering from alcoholism there was usually a co-occurring disorder prevalent in many alcoholics.  The conclusion of these findings regarding subtypes reveals that young people are more affected by alcohol dependency than previous thought.

If a person is an alcoholic, they may experience very severe health effects. It is so important for anyone who has a drinking problem to get help at a rehabilitation facility as soon as they can. Taking this step is the only way for them to take their lives back from alcohol. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse, it is necessary for them to go to an alcohol treatment detox center. Without medical intervention, it is very unlikely that a person will be able to quit drinking.

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