Seven Stages of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol Addiction Stage 1: Abstinence

If an individual has attitudes and perceptions consistent with those that addicts typically exhibit, alcohol addiction can actually begin before the drinking commences.

Alcohol Addiction Stage 2: Initial Use

Stage two can include the experimental use of alcohol, occasional use, or occasional binge drinking (i.e., once or twice a year). Initial use of alcohol may not yet be a problem for the user or those people who are close to the user. Occasional drinking may cause difficulties while the user is under the influence or the following day, he or she hasn't reached the stage of addiction.

Alcohol Addiction Stage 3: High Risk Use

High risk refers to an abundance of drinking, and poor choices made under the influence. At this stage, the pattern and frequency of alcohol abuse is high enough to be dangerous for the drinker and those around him or her.

Alcohol Addiction Stage 4: Problematic Use

Problematic use of alcohol occurs when the negative consequences of drinking becomes evident. Health concerns become issues, including impaired 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 decisions. Family and friends notice there is a problem.

Alcohol Addiction Stage 5: Early Stage of Dependency

The early stage of alcohol addiction is characterized by noticeable issues. The user begins to miss work, picks fights with family members and friends while under the influence of the drug. The alcoholic will choose to drink despite negative consequences. At this point, alcohol rehab is most effective.

Alcohol Addiction 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 missed days at work. Alcohol-induced fights end relationships. The effects of the negative consequences of alcoholism become irreversible.

Alcohol Addiction Stage 7: Crisis Stage of Dependency

At this crisis point, everyone is aware of the effects of alcoholism, including the alcoholic. Serious health problems become issues. The alcoholic is rarely without a drink, but the drinker believes he or she is fooling everyone. This stage frequently results in alcohol-related deaths for the users if they do not enter alcohol rehab.