The 6 Types of Alcoholics: Characteristics & Risks

These subtypes often co-battle a cigarette, Cocaine or Marijuana addiction too. Around half come from families with a long history of alcoholism. Genetics and environmental factors also play a critical role in the development of severe addiction among Young Adult Alcoholics. Those with a family history of alcoholism are at a higher risk, as are individuals exposed to stressful environments or lacking strong support systems. The normalization of heavy drinking in social settings further perpetuates the cycle of abuse, making it difficult for young adults to recognize when their drinking has become problematic. Early intervention is key, as this group often underestimates the severity of their alcohol use and may resist seeking help.

Young Antisocial Alcoholic FAQs

When the prefrontal cortex is impaired due to addiction, the person becomes fixated on consuming alcohol and when they can have their next drink. When that next drink comes, they circle back to stage one, and the addiction cycle continues. Regardless of the AUD subtype you fall into, medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use can help. And with Confidant Health, you can get the support you need right from home.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

However, to qualify as a bona fide wholesaler, a licensee must sell to retailers generally (BPC § 23779). The principal function of a customs broker is handling the paperwork and paying the duty on behalf of his principals on imported merchandise. When you know what type of alcoholic you are, you can also identify what treatment programs could be best. For someone who is a chronic severe alcoholic, treatment would likely need to be much more intensive. If you recognize the signs or symptoms of alcoholism either in yourself or someone you care about, treatment options are available. Around 80% of people in the severe chronic subtype have a familial and genetic alcoholism link.

Detailed Health Risks of Alcohol Abuse

• This group drinks more frequently than any other, although their total alcohol intake is less than the young antisocial subtype.
• Binge drinking puts the liver, cardiovascular system, and brain at risk.
• Instead, you may see these organisations refer to the person as having an alcohol use disorder.
• Understanding the types of alcoholics can make a life-changing difference.
• The prefrontal cortex is largely responsible for the third stage of the addiction cycle.

Just as some people with diabetes or asthma may have flare-ups of their disease, a return to drinking can be seen as a temporary setback to full recovery and not as a failure. Seeking professional help can prevent a return to drinking—behavioral therapies can help people develop skills to avoid and overcome triggers, such as stress, that might lead to drinking. Most people benefit from regular checkups with a treatment provider. Medications can also deter drinking during times when individuals may be at greater risk for a return to drinking (e.g., divorce, death of a family member).

Intermediate familial alcoholics are individuals who have a family history of alcoholism, and who may have grown up in homes where alcohol abuse was common. These individuals may have witnessed the negative impact of alcoholism in their family members and may have experienced trauma as a result. It’s also important to note that functional alcoholics may be at higher risk for health problems such as liver disease and high blood pressure. Alcoholism is a serious disease that can have devastating consequences if left untreated. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, reach out for help today. This group tends to begin drinking at a young age—often before 15—and is at high risk for developing chronic alcohol dependency.

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If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. As your loved one makes an effort, please keep in touch and be supportive. Too often we are so angry or discouraged that we take it for granted when things are going better.

What are the penalties for underage drinking in the state?

Texas has established statewide alcohol laws, but it also allows counties and cities to define some rules related to the types of alcohol sales. Setting legal time limits for alcohol sales is a proactive way to deal with this issue. There are varying time limits for purchasing alcohol on weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It’s important for both Texas residents and visitors to understand these laws to drink responsibly. Texas has had a long, complex history regulating the sale of alcohol. It’s important to set clear legal limits for alcohol consumption to prevent recklessness.

This subgroup is very likely to have had immediate family members with alcoholism. They also have high probability of suffering from antisocial personality disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. This group also suffers from high rates of cigarette, marijuana, and cocaine addiction. These individuals often have a family history of alcohol addiction and may demonstrate risky behaviors, like drunk driving or violent outbursts, that strain their relationships. They may also face frequent legal issues, such as arrests for disorderly conduct.

• About 50% come from families with multigenerational alcoholism.
• Someone with a family history of alcoholism may have an intermediate family subtype.
• Young adults in this group may not view their drinking as problematic, choosing to dismiss it as a “college phase” or part of youthful experimentation.
• It is important that as you try to help your loved one, you also find a way to take care of yourself.
• Alcohol plays a significant role in many people’s lives, yet its misuse can lead to deep struggles with dependency and addiction.
• Although there are many stereotypes about what an alcoholic looks like or how they behave, alcoholism manifests differently in everyone.

Does family history guarantee I’ll become an alcoholic?

These individuals often have close family members—parents, grandparents, or siblings—who also struggle with alcohol dependence. Alcohol misuse may begin during adolescence, Types of Alcoholics driven by genetic predispositions and dysfunctional family environments. However, severe dependency typically develops later in their 30s. Although they may not experience immediate consequences, their reliance on alcohol often grows over time.

The chronic severe alcoholic represents the most severe form of alcohol addiction. This type of drinking behavior is marked by persistent heavy drinking, which disrupts every aspect of life—from relationships to health and financial stability. Chronic severe alcoholics often face co-occurring mental health disorders, risky decision-making, and even legal issues, creating a downward spiral that can be life-threatening. This demographic represents a significant portion of alcohol-related issues, making it crucial to understand their behaviors, risks, and potential interventions. The intermediate familial subtype accounts for 18.8% of alcoholics. This group tends to start drinking younger (around 17) and also develops an alcohol dependence earlier (around 32).