Are There Three Stages of Alcoholism?
NIAAA does not describe alcoholism in three stages. It uses the term alcohol use disorder (AUD), which a health professional rates as mild, moderate or severe based on how many of 11 symptoms a person has had in the past year. MedlinePlus says severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism.
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We use your email only for this download.Severity levels, not stages
Early, middle and late “stages” are a popular idea, but the NIAAA page on alcohol use disorder does not use the word stages. It says AUD can be mild, moderate or severe, and that the number of symptoms sets the level.
| Symptoms in the past year | Level |
|---|---|
| 2 to 3 | Mild |
| 4 to 5 | Moderate |
| 6 or more | Severe |
NIAAA does not describe a timeline for moving from one level to another. It says only that the more symptoms, the more urgent the need for change.
The symptoms clinicians ask about
- Drinking more or longer than intended
- Trying to cut down or stop and not being able to
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from it
- Strong cravings
- Problems at home, work or school, or with family and friends
- Giving up activities to drink
- Drinking in risky situations, such as driving or swimming
- Continuing despite depression, anxiety or another health problem
- Needing more alcohol for the same effect (tolerance)
- Withdrawal when alcohol wears off, such as shakiness, nausea, sweating or seizures
Getting help
NIAAA points to its Alcohol Treatment Navigator and the Rethinking Drinking site. It warns that withdrawal can be life-threatening, so people with severe AUD may need medical help to stop. See a doctor before cutting down sharply.
People also ask
What are the three stages of alcoholism?
NIAAA does not define stages. It rates alcohol use disorder as mild (2 to 3 symptoms), moderate (4 to 5) or severe (6 or more).
Is alcoholism the same as alcohol use disorder?
MedlinePlus says severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence.
When should I see a doctor about my drinking?
NIAAA says seeking professional help early can help, and people with severe AUD may need medical help to stop safely because withdrawal can be life-threatening.
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