*In professional settings, the terms “alcoholism” and “alcoholic” have been replaced with “Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).” However, because more people are familiar with the term “alcoholic,” we’ve used it in this article for clarity.

Sipping on a glass of wine or cracking open a bottle of beer after a long day is something many people look forward to. But for some, what starts as a simple habit to relax turns into something more concerning.

Soon, they find themselves reaching for alcohol more and more frequently, especially when they’re experiencing negative emotions like loneliness, sadness, or stress. In some cases, a person may develop an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and lose control of how much they’re consuming.

If you or someone you know is an alcoholic, you may be wondering—can an alcoholic drink in moderation? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question while helping you learn more about alcoholism. By the end, you will learn:

If you or someone you love is an alcoholic, know that you are not alone. Reach out to the team at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn more about our treatment programs in San Antonio. We can answer any questions you have and help you choose the best option for your needs.

What Does it Mean to Be an Alcoholic?

An alcoholic is someone who cannot control their alcohol consumption even when it has mental, physical, social, or occupational repercussions. Alcoholism has less to do with the amount of alcohol someone drinks and more to do with how the alcohol intake affects their quality of life. It is not a character flaw, but a serious medical disorder that can have harmful consequences when left unaddressed. While millions of people meet the diagnostic criteria for alcoholism, only a small percentage end up seeking help.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

Alcohol dependence can present in different ways, with some people hiding it well or learning how to be highly-functioning alcoholics. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of the disorder include the following:

• Needing to drink more and more to feel the same effects
• Feeling unable to control one’s alcohol use despite the desire to
• Falling behind at work or in school because of the effects of alcohol
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (like nausea or insomnia) when not drinking
• Drinking alcohol even when it puts the person in harm’s way
• Avoiding friends, family members, or other social activities due to alcohol use

When someone continues to drink despite it causing issues in their life, this is usually an indication of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and could point to alcoholism.

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Risk Factors for Alcoholism

There are several different factors that can put an individual at risk of becoming an alcoholic. It’s important to note that while these factors may increase someone’s susceptibility to alcoholism, the mere presence of them does not mean that someone will become an alcoholic.

Genetic, environmental, and psychological factors can all increase a person’s risk of alcoholism, including:

• Abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, etc.)
• A history of trauma
• Mental health disorders like depression or PTSD
• Family history of alcoholism
• Having a specific personality type
• Drinking at an early age
• Drinking more over time

Can an Alcoholic Ever Drink Again?

When an alcoholic is trying to develop healthier habits, this often means that they have to give up drinking completely. While everyone’s journey looks different, research shows that those who abstain from alcohol have the highest chance of recovery.

If an alcoholic attempts to drink again, even in moderation, it could put them at risk of developing heavy drinking patterns again. Many former alcoholics decide that the risk is too great and choose to quit completely in order to stay sober.

Can an Alcoholic Drink in Moderation?

Moderate drinking can vary from person to person, as everyone is affected differently. In the U.S., moderate alcohol usage means one drink for women and no more than two for men.

To support long-term recovery, many people who struggle with alcohol misuse forgo trying to start drinking again, even in moderation. Rather than concentrating on controlled drinking, they shift their focus toward sobriety and anything that will help them get there. Healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes can be instrumental in the recovery process, no matter what stage someone is in.

Treatment Options for Alcoholism

Although alcoholism is a chronic condition, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to get better and maintain sobriety. Various treatment options are available, such as:

• Inpatient rehabilitation: One of the most common and successful ways to treat alcoholism is by entering a rehab program. These programs vary in length, with some lasting days or weeks and others lasting months. Inpatient rehab treatment gives an individual 24/7 access to doctors, therapists, and other specialists so they can solely focus on recovery.
• Outpatient rehabilitation: Outpatient rehab programs allow a person to continue living their life while receiving treatment. It does not require them to live on-site like inpatient programs do. This option can be useful for those who need more flexibility.
• Therapy: Seeing a therapist or counselor can help an alcoholic understand why they may have developed the disorder. It can also equip them with healthy coping skills and give them a safe place to talk about their setbacks and progress.
• Support groups: Many alcoholics find that belonging to a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) helps them stay on track during recovery. A support group can provide encouragement and advice while holding one another accountable.
• Medication: Certain types of medication can help people with alcoholism control their cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Using multiple treatment options—like therapy, medication, and rehab—often gives people the best chance for long-term recovery.

Recovery and Support for Alcoholism

If you’re having trouble stopping drinking or have a loved one struggling with their alcohol intake, reaching out for professional support is one of the most helpful steps you can take. Evidence-based treatment programs, like those at Alamo Behavioral Health, provide personalized care to address all aspects of addiction.

Whether you need residential treatment, outpatient support, or medically assisted detox, the right program can help you regain control over your life. Ready to take the next step? Contact Alamo Behavioral Health to explore your options, check insurance coverage, or schedule an intake appointment.

Resources:

1. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-drinking-patterns
2. https://www.aa.org/faq/can-alcoholic-ever-drink-normally-again
3. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/cycle-alcohol-addiction
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551