Can you cure alcoholism?

There is much confusion over what really defines an alcoholic, but the question always exists can you cure alcoholism?


Alcoholism is defined as alcohol dependency. It is not measured in total beers consumed or the number of glasses of wine consumed in a night or how consistently one drinks. If an individual is dependent on alcohol, then by definition they are an alcoholic despite how often or how much they consume alcohol.

Alcoholism is a disease that is chronic, progressive and often fatal. It afflicts countless numbers of people around the world. Alcoholism will attack the drinkers physical health first and eventually it will disturb their emotional and mental balance.

Unfortunately for men the disease is more prominent, with a high portion of those being young men. Alcoholism is divided into two categories: alcohol abuse or full blown alcoholism.

The term alcohol abuse simply refers to the times a drinker over indulges in alcohol to a health damaging point. It does not necessarily indicate they are addicted.

The term alcoholism refers to the individual that has become dependent on alcohol. They are no longer able to control their intake, even when they are at a noticeable point of damage to they physical and mental being.

Unfortunately for many their genetics and family history increase their likely hood of becoming an alcoholic. High stress levels or a great emotional trauma can also contribute.

Increased alcohol consumption can occur in those suffering from depression or a low self esteem, which as we know can lead to alcoholism. A persons peer group can also play a role. If they regularly socialize with heavy drinkers or alcoholics it leads to more exposure to the behavior.

Interestingly, this could be a problem on both ends of the social spectrum. Our society really promotes the use of alcohol through happy hours and social activities. For some this is a recipe for disaster.

So we go back to can you cure alcoholism, the answer is no. Unfortunately there is not a quick, easy cure. With so many diseases there are options for surgery or medicine, and this is just not the case for alcoholism.

So to cure alcoholism you need a helpful treatment program and a loving support system, and then you just manage it, you do not cure it