Dependency on alcohol begins around the age of 20 years when drinking becomes more regular but, the average age for alcohol dependency is 25 years. Binge drinking is the norm with 5 or more drinks being consumed in a single session increasing to 14 as a maximum. Additionally, these individuals are often far more likely to have a co-occurring mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. If an individual does not withdraw safely, then they risk a host of issues. This can include the development of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) – a broad term that includes multiple severe withdrawal symptoms and can make future rehabilitation a far longer and more complex process (2). To understand this complex and unique disorder, it’s essential to learn the different types of alcoholics.
And 47% of the members of this group exhibit antisocial personality disorder, the second highest rate of any subtype. This subtype is the most likely of any to experience major depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, and panic disorder. This group also is very likely to experience addiction to cigarettes, Marijuana, Cocaine, and Opioids. Many people who fall into the young antisocial alcoholic subtype suffer from other mental health disorders as well, such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, or depression. As many as three-fourths of this subset also smoke marijuana and/or cigarettes, and many also struggle with opioid or cocaine addictions as well. Polydrug abuse, and co-occurring disorders combined with alcohol abuse, increases the risk for addiction and can interfere with treatment measures.
The Functioning Alcoholic
Combined with medications and behavioral treatment provided by health care professionals, mutual-support groups can offer a valuable added layer of support. In addition to therapy and support groups, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is another option for those struggling with alcoholism. MAT uses medications like naltrexone or acamprosate to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to quit drinking. While environmental and social factors can contribute to alcoholism, research has shown that genetics also play a significant role. Studies have found that individuals with a family history of alcoholism are at a higher risk for developing the disease themselves.
This group has the lowest levels of education, employment, and income of any group. This group also drinks more at once and more overall than other groups, although they drink slightly less frequently. On the other hand, this group is more likely to seek help than almost any other; 35% sought out some form of assistance in overcoming alcoholism. This group has the highest rate of seeking treatment from a private health care provider but also often choose self-help groups, specialty treatment programs, and detox programs. Not all alcoholics know they suffer from a substance abuse problem because denial is a regular and expected aspect of alcoholism.
Alcohol Use Disorder by Demographics
This post discusses five distinct categories of people who suffer from alcoholism. By exploring each category in depth, you’ll better understand the complexities surrounding alcoholism. You’ll also know why it requires special treatment for successful recovery. Alcoholism is a complex and pervasive issue affecting millions of people in America.
The young antisocial alcoholic is typically male and may have a history of behavioral problems and criminal activity. These individuals tend to suffer from a range of psychological and emotional issues that they may attempt to numb through heavy drinking. Alcohol serves as a way for them to cope with the stress and trauma they have experienced, five types of alcoholics and they may feel that it is the only way they can find relief. It’s important to note that alcoholism is a disease, and those who suffer from it should be treated with compassion and understanding. Many chronic severe alcoholics may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their addiction, which can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
NIAAA researchers found that there were five distinct patterns of alcohol dependence.
Remember, alcoholism is a treatable disease, and recovery is possible with the right treatment and support. Researchers have defined five types of alcoholics based on their age, drinking habits, reasons for this, presence of other mental health disorders, and their family’s history with alcoholism (4). Alcoholism is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world.
Functional alcoholics are more likely to smoke but usually aren’t addicted to other substances. They typically drink every other day, consuming five or more drinks on average, and they often surround themselves with others who drink heavily. The Mary Poppins type of alcoholic is usually someone who is outgoing but becomes even more cheerful when under the influence of alcohol.
Five Types of Alcoholics – Understanding Alcoholism
The functional subtype is what you might think of when you hear “functional alcoholics.” Making up 19.5% of alcoholics, this is the group that is holding down jobs and relationships. Members of this group generally start drinking later (around 18) and develop an alcohol dependence later (around 37). This group suffers from moderate rates of depression but lower rates of most other co-occurring disorders. Many members of this group smoke cigarettes, but few have other substance use disorders. The Chronic Severe Subtype of alcoholism is considered the most severe and debilitating subtype.
Nearly half of intermediate familial alcoholics (47 percent) suffer from depression, and other mental health conditions are also fairly common. Examples may include anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Although most chronic severe alcoholics begin drinking at a young age, most do not develop a dependence on alcohol until later, by the age of 30. Almost 70 percent of chronic severe alcoholics seek treatment for their drinking problem at some point in their lives. This makes them the most likely among all other alcoholics to seek treatment.
