It is not unusual for individuals in this subtype to also suffer from anxiety problems, major depression, bipolar disorder, and other substance addictions. Out of all of the people who are addicted to alcohol in the United States, the subtype makes up a little less than 20% of them. Doctors assess whether someone is dependent on alcohol by looking for signs that show their patient can’t regulate their drinking, and that they have a strong internal drive to use alcohol. Every year, about 95,000 deaths in the United States can be attributed to excessive alcohol use.
For someone with alcohol use disorder, a relationship has developed between them and alcohol that makes not drinking a constant battle.
How do I break the habit of drinking?
I have realized that wanting to stop drinking is only the beginning and that formulating a strategy of swapping out bad habits for healthy ones is what will help me take my first steps. When you tend to drink at a certain time of day, doing something else is one of the best ways to distract you from old habits to help break that pattern. From awareness comes the ability to change and being mindful of your habits is the start of this process. Check out the Daybreak app to connect with others who may be going through a similar experience or reach out to a health professional such as GP.
