HFA

Alcoholism Stage 1: Abstinence

Alcohol dependence can actually begin before the alcohol consumption commences if an individual has attitudes and perceptions consistent with those that addicts traditionally exhibit.

Alcoholism Stage 2: Original Usage

Stage two can include the experimental use of alcohol, occasional usage, or periodic binge alcohol consumption (i.e., one or two times a year). First use of alcohol may not be a concern for the user or those persons who are close to the user. Periodic drinking may well create difficulties while the user is intoxicated or the next day, she or he has not reached the stage of addiction.

Alcoholism Stage 3: Significant Risk Use

Significant risk refers to an abundance of alcohol consumption, and poor choices made when intoxicated. At this stage, the pattern and regularity of alcohol abuse is high enough to be hazardous for the drinker and people around them.

Alcoholism Stage 4: Problematic Usage

Problematic usage of alcohol happens when the adverse consequences of drinking becomes evident. Physical health concerns become issues, including damaged liver function and/or STDs (sexual transmitted diseases). DUI (driving under the influence) charges may occur, and/or other legal issues relating to drinking to excess and making poor choices. Friends and family notice there is a problem.

Alcoholism Stage 5: Early Stage of Dependence

The early stage of alcohol dependence is characterized by noticeable issues. The drinker starts to miss work, starts arguments with members of the family and good friends while under the influence. The alcoholic will decide to drink in spite of negative consequences. At this point, alcohol rehabilitation is most effective.

Alcoholism Stage 6: Middle Stage of Dependency

During the middle stage of alcoholism, negative consequences begin to escalate. The user loses his or her job due to too many skipped days at work. Alcohol-induced fights end relationships. The effects of the adverse consequences of alcoholism become irreversible.

Alcoholism Stage 7: Crisis Stage of Dependency

Serious physical health concerns become issues. This stage frequently results in alcohol-related deaths for the users if they do not enter alcohol rehab.