In the U.S., the young adult alcoholic subtype comprises 31.5% of all alcoholics. This demographic’s average age is 24, with most being male, single, still in school, and with family histories of alcoholism. A study by scientists at the NIAAA, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), analyzed 1,484 survey respondents who met specific diagnostic criteria for alcohol addiction. Each type has symptoms and behaviors that separate themselves from each other.
Intermediate Familial Alcohol Treatment Programs
An intermediate familial alcoholic is a person who has a family history of alcoholism and may have a genetic predisposition to alcohol addiction. They may also have other mental health issues, 5 types of alcoholics such as bipolar disorder or major depression. These people experience high levels of physical addiction, which causes them to experience withdrawal symptoms if they change their drinking patterns. 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.
- They typically drink every other day, consuming five or more drinks on average, and they often surround themselves with others who drink heavily.
- This group tends to start drinking at the youngest age (around 15) and also develops an alcohol dependence at the earliest age (around 18).
- Seeking treatment is the most important thing you can do to improve your life.
- Half of the people in this subtype have experienced depression, and 20% have bipolar disorder.
Types of Alcoholics The Five Subtypes of Alcohol Addiction You Should Know
A study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) identified five different types of . Join our supportive what is alcoholism sober community where each day becomes a step towards personal growth and lasting positive change. “Subtypes of Alcohol Dependence in a Nati…presentative Sample.” Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 2007. This process begins with medical evaluation and stabilization before beginning the detox process.
How to approach a loved one who may be struggling with alcoholism?
Nearly 26% have a college degree or higher, and the average household income is almost $60,000, the highest among any of the subtypes. Because their alcohol addiction has fewer obvious negative consequences, an important aspect of dealing with an alcoholic is getting them to recognize that they have a problem. In addition, Moss said it is crucial for functional alcoholics to focus on abstinence or return to less dangerous drinking levels. While most high-functioning alcoholics begin drinking at about 18, they don’t develop an addiction to alcohol until their late 30s. Approximately one-third have a family history of alcoholism, and about one-quarter have been diagnosed with major depression. But they started drinking much earlier than young adult alcoholics — usually by the age of 15 or 16.
Strategies for Reducing Alcohol Consumption
When in the cycle of addiction, an individual’s career/school life, finances, and relationships, can all be affected, often worsening as the individual is left untreated. Anyone can develop an alcohol addiction, though the reasons for this may vary greatly. The development of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research indicates that genes contribute to approximately half of the risk for AUD, while environmental factors and gene-environment interactions account for the remaining risk. To diagnose AUD, the DSM-5 criteria consider factors such as the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumed, the inability to control alcohol use, and the presence of negative consequences related to alcohol.
- This group has comparatively low rates of co-occurring mental health conditions and moderate rates of other substance use disorders and family members with alcoholism.
- Young adult alcohol dependents are2.5 times more likely to be male than female.
- This group also drinks more at once and more overall than other groups, although they drink slightly less frequently.
- The DSM-5 provides a comprehensive framework that helps healthcare professionals assess the severity of alcohol use and identify the presence of AUD.
- These individuals may require intensive treatment and support due to the severity of their addiction.
Diagnostic and Treatment
This subtype is more common in men and is characterized by a more stable life than the Young Adult and Young Antisocial Subtypes. Individuals with the Intermediate Familial Subtype often have stable relationships and hold steady jobs, but they still struggle with AUD. They may drink to cope with stress or anxiety and have difficulty controlling their alcohol intake. In addition, individuals with the Intermediate Familial Subtype tend https://ecosoberhouse.com/ to have experienced trauma or other adverse childhood experiences, which may contribute to the development of the disorder.
However, their desire to please others can lead to excessive drinking in certain social situations. They may find it difficult to refuse drinks offered by friends or colleagues. Individuals high in agreeableness tend to be cooperative, empathetic, and trusting. Agreeable people may drink to facilitate social bonding and maintain harmony in group settings. Alcohol affects brain chemistry, altering neurotransmitter activity and impacting cognitive functions.
Chronic alcohol use affects brain chemistry, leading to exaggerated or distorted personality traits. These individuals may surprise their friends with sudden bursts of energy, humor, or creativity. While this transformation can be entertaining, it may also lead to embarrassing situations or risky behaviors that are out of character for their sober selves.
- By recognizing the different types of alcoholics, professionals can tailor treatment approaches, interventions, and support systems to address the unique needs of each subtype.
- This can make it very difficult for these people to quit, particularly if they use their family history as an excuse for their behaviour and do not attempt to change it.
- Family members and friends can recognize the type of alcoholic by observing their loved one’s behaviors and their impact on relationships.
- Young antisocial alcoholics are often resistant to treatment, but with the right interventions, recovery is possible.
By identifying the specific subtype an individual aligns with, tailored interventions and support systems can be implemented to address their unique needs effectively. The Young Adult Subtype of alcoholism typically involves individuals who develop problematic drinking patterns in their early adulthood. They may exhibit impulsive behavior, engage in binge drinking, and prioritize social activities where alcohol consumption is prevalent.