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Is Alcohol A Drug?

Many people minimize alcohol because it is legal and there are constant advertisements for it across all media platforms. The reality is that alcohol is a substance that can be very dangerous and destructive. So when asked, “Is alcohol a drug?” The answer should always be a resounding yes.

The Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most common addiction in the U.S. and abroad. It affects millions of people every year and it does not discriminate regarding which populations it affects (though some populations are more affected than others).

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), “28.9 million people ages 12 and older (10.2% in this age group) had AUD in the past year. This includes 16.8 million males ages 12 and older (12.1% in this age group),” and “12.0 million females ages 12 and older (8.3% in this age group).

It is also important to remember that AUD is a “disease.” For most of modern history, AUD has been seen as some type of moral failing or “choice.” However, it is now much better understood that AUD is a chronic disease that is more similar to other diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. AUD is also a “family disease,” in that it does not just affect the individual but everyone in close proximity to that individual. These loved ones are also the people who can best spot the signs and symptoms of AUD.

The Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

Now, of course, the signs and symptoms of AUD are going to vary based on the individual. However, there are more universal signs and symptoms to look out for. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:

  • Isolating away from family and close friends
  • A sudden change in friend groups
  • Excessive mood swings
  • Changes in sleep patterns, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
  • Loss of appetite and sudden changes in weight (gain or loss)
  • Not being able to stop drinking once started
  • Feeling overly anxious, nervous, or “stressed out”
  • Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, or loneliness (depression)
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Trouble with cognitive functioning
  • Committing self-harm or harm to others
  • Having suicidal ideations

As one can see, there are plenty of reasons why alcohol use and AUD should not be minimized. The symptoms can be life or death. This is why if any, many, or all of these symptoms are present it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences.

Is Alcohol a Drug?

Again, “Is alcohol a drug?” If the definition of a drug is a substance that causes mind alternation, then the answer must be a resounding yes.

In fact, many addiction professionals argue that alcohol is the most dangerous drug because it is legal and easily accessible. This is also why many people start experimenting with alcohol at a young age. In fact, alcohol is one of the most commonly misused substances among young people.

Is Alcohol a Drug That Requires Detox?

Now, the question, “Is alcohol a drug that requires detox?” is also a very important one. This is because the answer is also a resounding yes.

In fact, alcohol is one of the few substances where detoxing on one’s own can even be fatal. This is why detoxing in a safe, secure, and professional setting is so crucial. This will not only ensure that the process is as painless as possible, but also that it is safe. Professionals can ensure that the right hydration and nutrient replenishment take place.

Detox is also important because it connects the individual to the next stages of their recovery. This may be residential addiction care or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). The key is to choose the right program that fits the individual’s needs.

Is Alcohol a Drug That I Can Recover From?

The good news is that AUD is absolutely something that one can fully recover from in the long term. Many means, methods, and modalities can make this a reality.

There are effective psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), as well as positive experiential therapies like art therapy and nature immersion therapy. Many holistic healing methods can also be helpful. This includes yoga and meditation.

The Phoenix Difference at The Phoenix Recovery Center

Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in what we like to call the Phoenix difference – “Empowering individuals and families suffering from addiction and mental health disorders, to celebrate life through lasting solutions.”

Life is too short to spend it under the thumb of alcohol and addiction. Recovery is out there. There is hope. We can help.

Alcohol shares commonalities with many other well-known drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, and LSD, and in some ways it can be significantly more dangerous. In fact, many people don’t realize that alcohol is one of the most dangerous drugs to detox from, which is why it should always be done in the care of professionals. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about the dangers of alcohol use disorder (AUD), please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.

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The Phoenix Recovery Center
489 W. South Jordan Pkwy
Suite 400
South Jordan, UT