What is the Difference Between Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse?

The main difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse lies in the level of dependence and the impact on an individual's life. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

Alcohol Abuse:

Occurs when drinking alcohol becomes an issue that creates negative consequences for a person.
Characterized by drinking more than the recommended amount for safe drinking habits, such as binge drinking.
Symptoms include slowed reflexes, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, hangovers, lowering of inhibitions, and relying on drinking to relax or feel good.
Alcohol abusers are not physically dependent on alcohol, but even infrequent episodes of alcohol abuse can permanently damage their livelihoods.

Alcoholism:

Medically known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), it occurs when a person has formed a mental reliance on (addiction to) and/or a chemical dependency on alcohol.
Characterized by a chronic disease that can result in withdrawal symptoms and a decrease in the ability to stop or control drinking once dependence develops.
Symptoms include experiencing temporary blackouts, mood swings, making excuses for drinking, prioritizing drinking over responsibilities, distancing oneself from loved ones, drinking alone or in secrecy, and feeling hungover when not drinking.
Alcoholism may cause alcohol dependence, making it difficult or almost impossible to stop alcohol use once dependence develops.
Alcoholism often leads to more severe consequences, such as life-threatening health concerns and strained relationships with family and friends.

In summary, alcohol abuse involves problematic drinking behaviors that can lead to negative consequences, while alcoholism is a more severe condition characterized by addiction, physical dependence, and a decreased ability to control alcohol consumption.