The progression of alcoholism follows a predictable pattern; the alcoholic continues to drink alcohol despite knowing that it negatively impacts their health, relationships and overall well-being. Its physical, psychological and social effects intensify with the progression of the disease. Alcohol abuse tends to cause serious problems with one’s health, relationships, finances and professional success.
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Stages of Alcoholism
A person’s physical, mental, and social health deteriorates at a faster rate and in more severe ways as they go through the phases of alcohol addiction. People in the early stages of alcohol use disorder (AUD) often begin with social drinking and light alcohol consumption, with no outward signs of alcohol problems. However, they may start drinking alcohol more often and more heavily, seeking the euphoric effects that use of alcohol can provide. At this stage, individuals may continue to go about their day-to-day lives relatively well, but they might start noticing warning signs like minor hangovers, mood swings, or needing greater amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects.
Alcohol dependency intensifies during the intermediate stage of alcoholism. It becomes increasingly difficult to resist the urge to drink as alcohol is used as a crutch to dull mental distress, anxiety, or stress. By this stage, tolerance to heavy drinking has developed to the point where severe physical symptoms, such as memory loss or blackouts, might begin to appear. Drinking becomes a necessity rather than a social activity, and binge drinking episodes are common. Friends and family usually start to express concern as the effects on relationships, work, and social life become more evident.
When alcoholism progresses to its late stages, control of the condition becomes extremely challenging. Severe alcohol addiction is evident, with drinkers in this stage experiencing a compulsion to drink despite the serious consequences. Attempts to abstain may trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as trembling, sweating, and nausea. Serious health complications—including liver disease, heart problems, and brain damage—often develop at this point. As alcohol intake takes priority over all else, the person may face worsening social isolation, financial difficulties, and legal problems. At this advanced stage, without alcoholism treatment or addiction treatment, the complications of untreated alcoholism can be life-threatening.
How Alcohol Dependence Develops
Alcohol alters the brain’s chemistry with repeated exposure, particularly in areas responsible for reward and pleasure. Increased tolerance develops as the brain adapts to the effects of alcohol, leading people to consume more frequently and in larger amounts to achieve the desired effect.
The potential for physical and mental reliance on alcohol rises in direct relation to the speed of tolerance development, which can result in intense cravings for alcohol. As the brain and body begin to rely on alcohol for daily functioning, a person reaches a state of alcohol dependence. According to the DSM-5 criteria, symptoms of dependence include loss of control over drinking and an inability to reduce intake despite harmful consequences. At this stage, reducing or stopping alcohol consumption may lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can range from mild irritability and anxiety to severe risks such as seizures or delirium tremens (DTs).
Over time, alcohol dependency may progress into a full-blown addiction, where the individual experiences a complete loss of control over their alcohol use. This stage is often associated with an increased risk of developing other mental disorders and health complications. At this point, seeking professional treatment becomes essential to breaking the addiction cycle and beginning the path to recovery.
The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Alcoholism
Untreated alcoholism, a progressive disease, has severe impacts on the body and mind due to its chronic disease nature. The brain, heart, and liver are among the most vulnerable organs to the harmful effects of prolonged substance abuse. Long-term drinkers are at an increased risk of health problems such as heart issues, including cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias, and liver diseases like cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis, due to the progressive nature of alcohol’s effects on these organs.
Chronic alcohol use also raises the risk of certain cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. The negative impact of alcohol on the brain may lead to neurological issues like forgetfulness, disorientation, and long-term cognitive impairment, signaling physical dependence on alcohol that affects overall brain function.
The mental health consequences of alcoholism are equally concerning. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are common among individuals with alcohol dependency, with alcohol withdrawal often worsening these conditions. Drinking to manage mental health symptoms may lead to a downward spiral, where mental health deteriorates, increasing alcohol use and potentially leading to severe consequences like suicidal thoughts or actions.
Alcoholism’s social effects are widespread, damaging relationships with loved ones, coworkers, and friends as social functioning declines. Families affected by alcoholism frequently face issues like marital strife, child neglect, and domestic violence. Additionally, a decreased ability to work may result in job loss and mounting debt, as the progressive disease impacts professional stability.
Aside from these issues, untreated alcoholism often leads to legal problems, such as public intoxication charges or DUI arrests. Over time, isolation, homelessness, and lasting damage to personal and professional life are also common outcomes of untreated alcohol addiction.
Can Alcoholism Be Reversed?
Although alcoholism worsens with time, it is treatable with the right combination of expert therapy and early intervention. Your chances of recovery improve in proportion to how quickly you seek therapy. People who are just starting to drink too much may find that therapy, support groups (like Alcoholics Anonymous) and adjustments to their way of living help them get back on track. Those in the latter phases of alcoholism may need more extensive treatments, including medical detox, residential treatment and ongoing therapy.
There are two sides to the coin when it comes to alcoholism: the physical and the psychological. Many people start by going through detoxification, which helps their bodies get rid of alcohol and starts the healing process. After detox, patients continue their treatment with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy and family counseling. These programs help clients learn new coping skills, recognize when they are at risk of relapsing and repair damaged relationships. No matter how long someone has battled alcoholism, recovery is achievable with dedication and support.
Treatment Options at Long Island Treatment Center
No matter what stage of alcoholism a person is in, Long Island Treatment Center can help with a holistic and tailored approach. Since we know that no two people’s road to recovery is identical, we personalize our treatment plans to fit each patient’s requirements. We provide a variety of outpatient programs, including counseling, group therapy and support groups, for those who are just starting to battle alcoholism. Clients learn how to control their urges, stay sober and prevent relapse in these programs.
We provide residential treatment programs that are helpful for those who are in the middle or late phases of alcoholism. For individuals who want help with withdrawal symptoms, we provide medical detox. Our medical team attentively watches each client to make sure they are safe and comfortable. All of our treatment approaches, including trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing and CBT, aim to help people overcome addiction by getting to the root of the problem.
Our aftercare programs provide clients with continuing support and ways to avoid relapse even after treatment has ended. We strive to provide our clients with all they need to stay sober and live healthy, fulfilled lives.
Why Early Treatment Is Key
The best way to avoid the severe outcomes associated with problem drinking is to seek help as early as possible. Early effective treatment significantly reduces the likelihood of major health consequences and improves the chances of successful recovery. Inpatient programs and other treatment options are essential in this phase, as early intervention can also play a critical role in restoring relationships with family members and rebuilding a stable, fulfilling life.
Get Help at Long Island Treatment Center
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcoholism, don’t wait for problem drinking to worsen. Contact Long Island Treatment Center now to explore effective treatment options tailored to meet your needs. Starting with medical detox and continuing through aftercare programs, our caring staff supports you and your family members every step of the way. Taking this step now is your first move toward a better, more fulfilling way of life.
Take the first step toward recovery—contact Long Island Treatment Center today and begin your journey to lasting sobriety.