For many people, the facts about alcoholism are not clear. What is alcoholism, exactly? How does it differ from alcohol abuse? When should a person seek help for a problem related to his or her drinking? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)  provides a guide to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems. The following information is adapted from that guide and explains both alcoholism and alcohol abuse, the symptoms of each, when and where to seek help, treatment choices, and additional helpful resources.

What Is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse is defined as a pattern of drinking that results in one or more of the following situations within a 12-month period:

What Are the Signs of a Problem?
How can you tell whether you may have a drinking problem?

What Influences The Decision To Get Help?
Accepting the fact that help is needed for an alcohol problem may not be easy. But keep in mind that the sooner you get help, the better are your chances for a successful recovery.

What is Alcoholism Treatment?
Treatment comes in many shapes and sizes.

Is Alcoholics Anonymous Treatment?
The type of treatment you receive depends on the severity of your alcoholism and the resources that are available in your community.

Can Alcoholism Be Cured?
Although alcoholism can be treated, a cure is not yet available.

What Should Someone Who Abuses Alcohol Do?
If your health care provider determines that you are not alcohol dependent but are nonetheless involved in a pattern of alcohol abuse, he or she can help you to:

Based On NIH Publication No. 96–4153
Revised 2001