Alcoholism In Degrees 

Today experts are no longer categorizing an alcoholic just by the fact that they drink so much alcohol that it affects his/her life. Now alcoholism can be divided into varying degrees of alcoholism. Now the experts define alcohol use by the level of harm the alcohol is causing.

It is an all consuming drug that affects a persons mind, body, and spirit. Even though, alcohol is a legal drug, alcohol addiction is a very common problem and carries with it a multitude of social and psychological issues. By using these new categories, it is possible to get help for the alcoholic at an earlier stage.

In this discussion, the definition of "one drink" is referring to one can or glass (12 ounces) of beer, one small glass (5 ounces) of wine, or one shot (1.5 ounces) of 90-proof liquor.
 
The Moderate Drinking Degree:

Moderate drinking, in the case of red wine, has shown to offer some health benefits.  Using the definition of "one Drink"  above, moderate drinking is defined as two or less drinks a day for men and one or less drink a day for women. This usually doesn't happen at happy hour.

The Harmful Drinking Degree:

Harmful drinking, simple put, is when alcohol consumption has actually caused physical or psychological harm.  Which can be determined by the following:

* Clear evidence shows that consumption of alcohol is responsible for harm to the person.
* The harm can truly be identified.
* Alcohol consumption has been persistent for at least a month or more. It has occurred regularly for at least a year.
* The harmful drinker doesn't have an alcohol dependence.

The Alcohol Abuse Degree:

The people who fall into the category of alcohol abusers have one or more of the following alcohol related problems over a period of one year:

* A continued failure to fulfill work or personal obligations.  "So I'm a little late, so what."
* The continued and recurrent use of alcohol no matter the potential dangers may be.  "Sure I'm driving, I'm to drunk to walk."
* Habitual problems with the law.  "Now would I lie to a law officer, I swear, I only had one small drink."
* The habitual use of alcohol no matter the harm being done relating to their social or personal relationships.  "Sure I'm drinking, so what."
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The Degrees of Alcohol Dependence:

The people will will have three or more of the following alcohol related problems during a period of one year.

* The ever increasing volume of alcohol needed to produce an effect.  "Just one more drink will do it."
* Continually having the normal withdrawal symptoms.  "More than likely it is just the flu, a little drink will help."
* Really not intending to drink excessively.  "I was only going to have one small beer."
* Trying to quit or cut down over and over again, but a;ways unsuccessfully.  "Quitting is not a problem, I can quit anytime I want."
* Making the choice for alcohol over personal and work activities.  "You guys go on, I think I will just stay here and drink."
* Continuing to drinking no matter the harmful affects on self and others.  "I don't care, I'm not hurting anyone but me."

Really, They Just Can't Quit:

In almost all cases, people who drink excessive amounts of alcohol continue to have the same results in their attempts to quit or detoxify themselves. They just can't do it. The alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms can be very severe. They can include intense anxiety, shakiness, hot and cold flashes, and nausea.  Alcohol addiction or alcoholism and drinking too much can affect anyone. It does not discriminate based on age, race, gender or circumstances.  Alcohol addiction is a treatable disease, but the person who is seeking treatment must want it and be willing and able to give it up entirely.  Trying to treat alcohol addiction or alcoholism without the help of professionals is typically unrealistic. Getting quality treatment can have great rewards of sobriety in the end.