Most of us are familiar with the term “alcoholism” and its meaning. But did you know there are actually different types of alcoholism? Alcoholism. It’s a topic that can evoke all sorts of feelings, from curiosity to anxiety and everything in between. Notoriously tricky to define, the term alcoholism is often misunderstood or largely discussed in hushed tones- especially for moms looking for support navigating this difficult terrain. But fear not mamas! Let’s explore the various types of alcoholism and what they mean. We’ll get some insight into what exactly makes someone an alcoholic (hint: it’s a little more nuanced than just one too many drinks now and then). 

Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence

The first type of alcoholism is alcohol abuse. This type of alcoholism occurs when an individual drinks excessively or engages in binge drinking but does not exhibit any other signs or symptoms of addiction or dependence on alcohol. Someone who abuses alcohol may drink more than they should but still be able to control their consumption and not suffer from cravings for more alcohol. 

The second type of alcoholism is alcohol dependence. This type of alcoholism occurs when an individual becomes physically and/or psychologically dependent on alcohol and experiences cravings for more alcohol after consuming it. People who are dependent on alcohol often experience withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, depression, irritability, and difficulty sleeping if they stop drinking abruptly.

Severe Alcoholism

The third type of alcoholism is severe alcoholism. This occurs when an individual exhibits a severe physical dependence on alcohol and has been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time—often years or decades—with no sign or hope of recovery or abstinence from drinking in sight. Severe forms of alcoholism can have devastating effects on one’s mental health as well as their physical well-being due to the excessive amounts of alcohol consumed over long periods of time. 

Young adult onset type (YAO)

The first type of alcoholism is known as young adult onset type (YAO). This type usually occurs in people aged 18 to 29 and is characterized by high levels of drinking despite negative consequences. YAO typically begins early in life, with heavy drinking occurring at least once a month for three or more years. Other symptoms include feelings of guilt or shame about one’s drinking habits, an inability to control one’s drinking, and having two or more alcohol-related problems over a 12-month period.

Late adult onset type (LAO)

The second type is known as late adult onset type (LAO). This typically occurs in people aged 30 and over and involves less frequent but heavier drinking than YAO. LAO drinkers often binge drink—or consume large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time—and may struggle with alcohol dependency later in life. Other signs include blacking out after consuming large amounts of alcohol, having cravings for alcohol, and feeling physically dependent on it.

Intermediate familial type (IF)

The third type is known as intermediate familial type (IF). IF typically affects those with a family history of alcoholism and is characterized by drinking that starts at an earlier age than YAO or LAO drinkers but progresses more slowly than YAO. IF drinkers may find themselves unable to stop once they start drinking, have intense cravings for alcohol, and experience physical withdrawal symptoms when not consuming it. 

Chronic severe type (CS)

Finally, there is chronic severe type (CS). CS typically affects those with both a family history of alcoholism as well as other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. CS drinkers tend to experience the most severe consequences from their addiction such as legal trouble, job loss, financial stressors, relationship conflicts, health complications due to excessive consumption or withdrawal symptoms, or even death due to overdose or liver failure caused by long-term abuse.  

Alcoholism can take many forms; however, it affects all individuals differently depending on their personal situation and history with substance abuse. It’s important to understand that each form requires specialized treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs in order for them to successfully achieve sobriety and lead healthy lives free from addiction. If you believe that you may be suffering from any form of alcoholism mentioned above, please seek help from a qualified medical professional right away.

It’s important to understand the types of alcoholism so that families can be better prepared to support their loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources available to get you on the road to recovery. Have you had experience with any of these types of alcoholism? What resources have been helpful in your journey? Alcoholism is a serious disease that requires professional treatment, but there is hope for recovery. If you or somebody you know is struggling with alcoholism, please reach out for help.