March 13, 2026 5:09 pm

5 Types of Alcoholics According to the NIAAA

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  • Young adult alcohol dependents are2.5 times more likely to be male than female.
  • Their role in the family system is to diffuse stressful and serious situations in the household.
  • The Young Antisocial subtype is characterized by individuals who not only struggle with alcoholism but also exhibit antisocial behaviors.
  • Chronic severe alcoholics also have a higher likelihood of abusing other substances alongside alcohol.

When they drink, their maximum number of drinks is 17, the highest of any subtype of alcoholic. The chronic severe subtype of alcoholism aligns with the stereotype of alcohol use disorder in the U.S. These individuals tend to have difficulty holding a job, cannot conceal their alcohol abuse, and suffer from the more serious consequences of alcoholism. They tended to start drinking at 15 and became alcoholics by earlier than other subtypes. The young antisocial subtype and the young adult subtype don’t overlap, Moss tells WebMD.

Social Class and Types

Some alcoholics have insomnia, and many suffer from emotional distress. Almost one-third of alcoholics in the United States are young adult alcoholics. Many of these teens and early twenty-somethings are college students in environments that promote excessive social and binge drinking. Since heavy drinking among young people is often seen as a phase, most young adult alcoholics suffer without seeking help.

Alcoholism can be a serious and debilitating condition that affects not only the person struggling with addiction, but also their loved ones. If left untreated, alcoholism can lead to a host of negative consequences like financial problems, legal troubles, and strained relationships. It is the most prevalent category of individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), accounting for a significant percentage of cases. Alcoholism and its adverse impact on individuals, families, and society is fueling a need for health educators who can create effective national and global health education programs.

Alcohol Abuse

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. The development of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research indicates that genes contribute to approximately half of the risk for AUD, while environmental factors and gene-environment interactions account for the remaining risk.

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5 types of alcoholics

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5 types of alcoholics

Young antisocial alcoholics have a high rate of psychiatric disorders and other substance abuse. Traveling for healthcare & essential services is permitted across the US. Addiction treatment is essential, and we are here for our patients Sobriety in this difficult time.

5 types of alcoholics

This group has the highest rate of seeking treatment from a private health care provider but also often choose self-help groups, specialty treatment programs, and detox programs. Many young antisocial alcoholics also have other substance use disorders, including addiction to cigarettes, marijuana, and opiates. Almost27%of intermediate familial alcohol dependents have sought help for their drinking problem. They tend to prefer self-help groups, detoxification programs, specialty treatment programs and individual private health care providers. Young adult alcohol dependents are2.5 times more likely to be male than female.

5 types of alcoholics

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  • By identifying these subtypes, professionals can develop tailored treatment plans to address individual needs effectively.
  • By recognizing the different types of alcoholics and their unique characteristics, we can develop a deeper understanding of alcoholism as a complex disorder.
  • Given the severity of symptoms, an integrated approach to alcohol treatment is necessary, addressing both mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
  • Deep down they have a lot of shame and blame themselves for things within the family system.

It typically includes medically monitored withdrawal, which helps reduce symptoms of withdrawal. It can also help prevent seizures or other complications that may arise. If you find that the above descriptions resemble you or a loved one, you’re not alone. At The Recovery Village, we offer evidence-based treatment methods that can address every aspect of each client’s treatment needs. We want to guide you down the path to recovery –call today to learn more.

  • Only 9% have a college degree, and they also have the lowest employment rate.
  • The treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) include detoxification, behavioral therapies, medications, mutual-support groups, and aftercare programs.
  • This type often ends up in legal trouble before seeking treatment.
  • Luckily, there are several treatment options for all types of alcoholics.
  • Diagnosis of AUD is established using the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

Environmental factors, such as growing up in a household with alcohol abuse, can also contribute to their alcohol-related behaviors. The functional subtype is unique in that individuals in this category are able to maintain a relatively normal life despite their alcohol addiction. Often, these individuals are high-functioning, maintaining stable jobs, relationships, and responsibilities. They may hide their alcohol consumption and may not display obvious signs of intoxication. However, their alcohol dependence can still have negative consequences on their physical and mental health in the long alcoholism treatment term. The functional subtype is what you might think of when you hear “functional alcoholics.” Making up 19.5% of alcoholics, this is the group that is holding down jobs and relationships.