What Is Alcoholism? Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder, Alcohol Abuse, and Alcohol Dependence
Alcoholism, often called alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic brain condition recognized by both the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association. It describes more than just drinking too many alcoholic beverages; it’s the ongoing struggle of being unable to control alcohol use, even when it leads to serious health problems, relationship difficulties, or other painful consequences. For many, this feels less like a choice and more like being trapped in a cycle that’s hard to break alone.
