Someone in Ravenna who keeps promising to cut back on substances but is unable to do so may have an addiction. Addiction is treatable, and it starts with admitting you need help.
Addiction treatment programs vary in intensity-from self-help and support groups to inpatient or residential care to medication-assisted therapy .
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that includes both alcoholism and alcohol abuse . The difference between the two conditions is based on the severity of symptoms. People who suffer from alcohol dependence are unable to control their drinking and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop suddenly. Alcohol abuse, which does not include the symptoms of dependency or withdrawal, involves excessive use with resulting problems in a person's life such as work, school, or personal relationships.
The use of alcohol interferes with parts of the brain that are responsible for judgment and impulse control , resulting in poor decision-making skills , risky behaviors , and relationship problems . When someone has an addiction to alcohol, they will continue using despite the negative consequences.
Alcohol is a drug that affects people differently depending on their genetic makeup , age, weight, tolerance level, sex, and other factors. The amount of alcohol needed to produce intoxication varies from person to person and can be increased by drinking more rapidly than usual or by combining it with another substance like prescription medication .