5 Different Types of Alcoholics

M. Jellinek created the first scientific typology which referred to alcoholism as a disease, but, these have since evolved. While approximately 15 million American adults suffer from alcohol use disorder, fewer than 1 in 10 typically seek treatment for addiction. Five types of alcoholics exist, and the type can influence whether or not people choose to seek treatment for their addiction.

In the UK, the legal drinking age is 18, meaning that individuals in this category often fall into this age group or are younger. The following subparagraphs outline these five types of alcoholism, highlighting how they differ from one another and the origins and/or reasons for the development of this disorder. However, for the reasons 5 types of alcoholics mentioned in the previous paragraph, as well as due to differing individual factors, this is simply not the case. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp. According to the NIAAA, to determine the level of severity, individuals are asked questions similar to what’s listed below.

What are the long-term effects of alcoholism on physical health?

The majority smoke, and many use other drugs, including marijuana, cocaine and opioids. The Apollonian-Dionysian distinction has been used to summarize the commonalities among alcoholic subtypes. Greek and Roman mythology attributes the characteristics of contemplation, intellect, artistic creativity, and self-restraint to the god Apollo. As suggested in the subtypes grouped under this designation, when alcohol dependence develops in such an individual, typically after years of socially approved heavy drinking, it presents in a more benign form. Consequently, Apollonian subtypes include alcoholics who are characterized by later onset, a slower disease course, fewer complications, less psychological impairment, and a better prognosis.

That means people who drink heavily often need to keep drinking heavily to feel the impact of alcohol. The body has become accustomed to alcohol, so smaller sips do not have the same power. If you or your loved one is struggling with an alcohol addiction, you aren’t alone. Join the thousands of people we’ve started on the road to lifelong recovery.

Dalmane Addiction: Understanding and Recovery

“Denial is huge for any alcoholic, especially for a functioning alcoholic, because I, you know, I’m not living under a bridge.