There are many questions that often arise about alcohol addiction, and some of these surround the time it takes to truly set in. When has someone become addicted to alcohol, and what are some of the factors that tend to influence how long this takes?
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we provide caring, compassionate alcohol addiction recovery and other addiction treatment services to people around Boise, Pocatello and nearby parts of Idaho. We’re here to assist with any kind of need you or a loved one may have, including providing important information on alcohol addiction or any other kind of addiction you’re working to overcome. Here are some basics on how long it takes to become addicted to alcohol, plus some important related elements.
Alcohol Impacts Everyone Differently
The simplest answer to the question of how long it takes to become addicted to alcohol: It depends. Everyone’s body and mind are different, and this means the same substance can impact each person in a unique way.
Some people may become addicted to alcohol after just one or two instances of heavy drinking, while others may be able to use it heavily for years without becoming truly addicted.
Nuanced to Define
A major complicating factor to determining when someone is addicted to alcohol consumption is the simple fact that on its own, drinking alcohol is neither bad nor illegal. Many people can use alcohol in moderation and without negative consequences, making it difficult to pinpoint when someone has crossed the line from recreational use to addiction.
That said, there tend to be some red flags that signal a potential problem with alcohol addiction, such as:
- Drinking to cope with stress or emotions
- Obsessing over when and where the next drink will come from
- Difficulty cutting back or stopping drinking once started
Additional factors that may contribute to the development of alcohol addiction include genetics, mental health issues, and past trauma.
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Another important related term is alcohol use disorder (AUD), which is a medical condition characterized by a compulsive need to drink despite negative consequences. AUD can range in severity from mild to severe, and it encompasses both alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about 15 million adults in the U.S. have AUD, with men being more likely than women to have the disorder.
Defining “Heavy Drinking”
To be clear, “heavy drinking” is not necessarily the same thing as alcohol addiction. Some people are able to participate in occasional or even somewhat frequent heavy drinking without being addicted to alcohol, while others may develop an addiction quickly.
However, those who do become addicted to alcohol may often tend to engage in heavy drinking more often. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines heavy drinking as more than four alcoholic beverages in a single day or 14 drinks per week for men, or more than three in a day or seven drinks a week for women. If you or a loved one is regularly consuming above these levels, it’s important to monitor for potential signs of addiction and consider seeking professional help.
Possibility of Alcohol Withdrawal
In certain cases of long-term, heavy alcohol use, a person may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to cut back or stop drinking. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening complications. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms while trying to stop drinking, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Some common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Shaking or tremors
- Seizures
In extreme cases, alcohol withdrawal can lead to delirium tremens (DTs), a serious condition that may include hallucinations, confusion, and seizures. It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Seeking Help for Alcohol Addiction
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol addiction, there is no shame in seeking help. Recovery is possible and there are many resources available to support you on your journey. At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we offer personalized treatment plans that focus on addressing the root causes of addiction and helping individuals build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
We also understand that seeking treatment for alcohol addiction can be overwhelming and daunting. That’s why we provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to take the first steps towards healing. Contact us to learn about any of our alcohol addiction or other addiction recovery programs around Boise, Pocatello or nearby parts of Idaho.
