Beyond the Stereotypes: Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
When people think of someone struggling with alcoholism, they often imagine extreme and visible signs—slurred speech, reckless behavior, or chaos at home or work. But in truth, Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) doesn’t always look the way it’s portrayed in movies or headlines. It can be quiet. It can be hidden. And it can affect anyone.
This Alcohol Awareness Month, Herren Project invites you to look beyond the stereotypes. Understanding the full scope of AUD can help us recognize warning signs, reduce stigma, and guide ourselves or loved ones toward support.
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol Use Disorder is a medical condition defined by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It’s more than just drinking too much—it’s a chronic brain disease that affects millions of individuals, often silently.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the rate of deaths from excessive alcohol use rose by 70% between 2012 and 2022, reaching 13.53 deaths per 100,000 people.
If you’re unsure whether alcohol may be playing too large a role in your life—or someone else’s—consider the following questions:
- Do you often drink more than you intended?
- Have you tried to cut back but couldn’t?
- Is alcohol interfering with your relationships, responsibilities, or health?
- Do you feel anxious, shaky, or depressed when you’re not drinking?
If the answer is “yes” to two or more of the standard diagnostic criteria within a year, it may be time to take a closer look at your relationship with alcohol.
Defining Drinking Levels: What’s “Too Much”?
Even for those who don’t consider themselves to have AUD, the line between casual and harmful drinking isn’t always clear. Here’s how health experts break it down:
- Low-risk drinking: Up to 1 drink per day for women, 2 for men
- Binge drinking: 4+ drinks for women or 5+ drinks for men in about two hours
- Heavy drinking: Binge drinking on 5 or more days in a month
Understanding what counts as a standard drink—like 12 oz. of beer, 5 oz. of wine, or 1.5 oz. of distilled spirits, can be key in recognizing consumption patterns that may be problematic.
Alcohol’s Impact on the Body
Alcohol doesn’t just influence behavior—it affects almost every system in the body:
- Brain: Disrupts communication pathways, affecting mood, memory, and coordination
- Heart: Increases risk for high blood pressure, stroke, and irregular heartbeat
- Liver: Can lead to fatty liver, hepatitis, fibrosis, or cirrhosis
- Pancreas: Triggers inflammation that impacts digestion and overall health
- Immune system: Lowers the body’s defenses, making it easier to get sick
These risks are cumulative—sometimes immediate, sometimes long-term—but always worth considering.
Photo credit: csuchico.edu
Family Support is Critical
Addiction doesn’t just affect the person who’s drinking. It ripples through families, leaving emotional scars, strained relationships, and unanswered questions. That’s why we provide dedicated family support services, virtual support groups, and education to help loved ones heal alongside the person in recovery.
Breaking the Silence
Alcoholism can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary struggle. Millions are living in recovery, and support is more accessible than ever. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to seek help, know this:
You’re not alone. You are not a failure. Recovery is possible.
At Herren Project, we offer recovery navigation services, recovery housing, coaching scholarships, 1-on-1 family phone consults, and online family support groups. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you care about, we’re here to walk beside you. All our services are provided at no cost thanks to our generous donors.
Be Part of the Change
Alcohol Awareness Month is about more than just learning facts—it’s about igniting change. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Join a Herren Project race or event
- Share your story of recovery or support
- Fundraise or donate to help individuals and families in need
- Educate others about AUD and available resources
Together, we can challenge outdated ideas, encourage open conversations, and offer hope to those still struggling in silence.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact us at [email protected] or call 844-543-8555. You can also complete our confidential support inquiry form to connect with a member of our team.
Let’s rewrite the narrative around alcoholism, starting with compassion, education, and support.
