Alcoholic vs Heavy Drinker: When to Draw the Line

Where’s the Line Between an Alcoholic and a Heavy Drinker?

With alcohol use being socially accepted on a fairly wide basis throughout the country, it can be difficult to tell the difference between heavy drinking and a full-fledged alcohol dependence.

While both can have negative consequences, an alcohol use disorder is far more destructive in the long-term. Knowing how to recognize the differences between the two can help you make safe and informed decisions, and get the right help to start living a healthier life.

If you believe that you or a loved one may have a drinking problem, keep reading to learn more about how you can recognize the line between being an alcoholic vs heavy drinker, and how the Find Addiction Rehabs team can help you get your life back on track.

Moderate vs Binge Drinkers

Most people fall into the “moderate drinker” category, meaning they usually go entire stretches of time without needing, wanting, or even thinking about having a drink. This is generally what is considered to be normal behavior when it comes to alcohol consumption.

These individuals can order a glass of wine or beer with dinner, not finish it, and be completely comfortable with that fact. They are also the people that know that when they start to feel buzzed, they should probably stop drinking, and are able to do so without problem.

Both heavy drinkers and those with alcohol use disorders have a hard time with these seemingly simple tasks. For those who struggle with problem drinking, a standard drink alone often does not cut it.

One drink usually turns into several, and an unfinished beverage is considered wasted. Many problem drinkers cannot simply turn their drinking off. In order to feel like they have had a good evening, they are compelled to drink excessively, even if they are at a point where they know they should stop.

What Defines Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking is a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 percent or higher. For a typical adult, this equates to consuming 5 or more drinks for a male, or 4 or more drinks for a female in a period of around 2 hours.

While binge drinkers are not considered to be necessarily alcoholics, excessive drinking is still a serious public health problem. Heavy alcohol consumption is associated with a number of health risks, including:

• Alcohol poisoning.
• Injuries, such as car crashes, falls, and drowning.
• Violence, including sexual assault and homicide.
• Unintended pregnancy.
• Fetal and birth complications for pregnant women.
• Chronic health problems, such as liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.
• Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heavy alcohol use is a serious problem in the US, with an estimated one in six adults reporting binge drinking behavior, and 25% of these individuals doing so at least once a week.

Are They an Alcoholic or a Heavy Drinker?

While both heavy drinkers and alcoholics are known to engage in binge drinking, this behavior does not immediately classify someone as having an addiction to alcohol. The main difference is that heavy drinkers are capable of practicing moderation in certain circumstances.

For them, limiting intake to certain amounts may not be ideal, but it is not impossible either. Someone who is alcohol dependent, however, will have a much harder time with this. Someone who is addicted to alcohol has reached a point in their drug use that it has chemically altered their brain.

In other words, they have become dependent on the substance, and need continuous access to it to be able to feel and function normally. When not currently using alcohol, they will have strong desires to do so and can be consumed by these urges to use. Of course, these are not the only defining characteristics of this addiction.

How Can You Recognize an Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic disease that can have devastating effects on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health. It is characterized by a compulsive need to drink alcohol, despite negative consequences.

There are many signs that someone may be struggling with alcohol addiction. Some of the most common signs include:

• Drinking more than originally intended or being unable to stop drinking once you have started.
• Building a tolerance to alcohol and needing to drink more and more for longer to get the same effect.
• Developing withdrawal symptoms and feeling physically and mentally unwell when you stop drinking.
• Having cravings or an intense urge to drink alcohol.
• Losing control and not being able to manage how much you drink.
• Experiencing negative consequences in your personal, professional, or social life due to your drinking habits.

The More Subtle Signs of an Alcohol Use Disorder

While these are some of the most recognizable signs that you or someone else is struggling with an addiction to this substance, there are still more side effects that you can keep an eye out for that may indicate a drinking problem. These include:

• Changes in mood or behavior: Alcohol can cause a person to become more aggressive, irritable, or depressed. They may also withdraw from social activities or neglect their responsibilities.
• Changes in physical appearance: Alcohol can cause weight gain, liver damage, and other health problems. A person with alcohol addiction may also regularly have red eyes, slurred speech, or difficulty walking.
• Problems at work or school: Alcohol can impair judgment and concentration, which can lead to problems at work or school. Someone with an alcohol addiction may miss work or school, make careless mistakes, or get into arguments with co-workers or professors.
• Legal problems: Alcohol can lead to arrests for driving under the influence, public intoxication, using alcohol while under the legal drinking age, or other alcohol-related offenses.
• Relationship problems: Alcohol can strain relationships with family and friends. A person who is addicted to alcohol may neglect their relationships or engage in risky or embarrassing behavior while drinking.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be struggling with alcohol addiction, there are many resources available to help. Knowing what steps go into treating this addiction and how you can find the right resources for your drinking problem is important for getting your life back on track.

How Can Alcohol Addiction Be Treated Effectively?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes alcohol addiction as a serious medical condition that can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, there is help available. Treatment for alcohol addiction can help you or your loved one overcome this addiction and live a healthy and sober life.

There are many different types of treatment available for alcohol use disorders. The best type of treatment for you or your loved one will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Some of the most common types of treatment include:

• Detoxification: Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, which is why detoxification is usually the first step in the treatment process for most people. Detoxification helps recovering individuals safely withdraw from alcohol. This can be done in a hospital or an inpatient treatment center.
• Medication: There are a number of medications that can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These medications can be used alone or in combination with other forms of treatment and can help with certain medical conditions caused by long-term alcohol abuse.
• Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy can help you or your loved one to understand the reasons for your drinking and to develop healthy coping mechanisms. Behavioral therapy can be done individually or in a group setting.
• 12-step programs: 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, are free and available in most communities. These programs offer support and guidance to people who are struggling with addiction and can be very effective when used in combination with evidence-based treatment modalities.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, there is help available. The Find Addiction Rehabs team can answer all of your recovery questions and help you find a treatment center that is right for your needs.

Find Freedom from Problem Drinking Now!

If you have found yourself or a loved one suffering from alcoholism or addiction, you are not alone! If you are ready to change your life and live free of addiction, then Find Addiction Rehabs can help.

We give you the jump start to recovery you need. We work with an extensive network of treatment facilities nationwide that can address all of your care needs. Reach out to our 24/7 confidential helpline to get started on your recovery journey today!

FAQs on Heavy Drinking vs Alcoholism

What is Considered Alcohol Abuse?

Alcohol abuse is defined as any drinking pattern that puts your health or safety at risk. It can lead to a number of health problems, including liver damage, heart disease, and cancer. It can also lead to problems in your personal and professional life.

If you have any suspicions that your drinking is problematic, then it is probably safe to say that it is time to get help. Alcohol can have devastating effects on our lives, and should not be treated lightly.

Is Being a Heavy Drinker Considered Substance Abuse?

Drinking past a certain amount, even just on one occasion, can be seriously dangerous. Most dietary guidelines will not recommend drinking past one or two drinks in one instance, as more than this can impair cognitive functions and lead to various health risks.

Having too much alcohol can make you seriously sick, and even cause life-threatening complications if you develop alcohol poisoning. It is best to always drink in moderation, have plenty of water in between alcoholic beverages, and never drink on an empty stomach.

Medically Reviewed By