Is Alcoholism a Mental Illness?

Understanding the Definition of Mental Illness

Mental illness encompasses health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. This includes disorders such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and addictive behaviors. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences a mental illness each year, with rising rates among teenagers.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), widely used by healthcare providers, classifies Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) as a mental health disorder. This classification aligns with its previous recognition in the DSM-III (1980), where alcoholism was identified as a subset of mental disorders. Today, AUD is understood as a chronic condition with physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms.

What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical and psychological condition marked by the inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. AUD can range from mild to severe and is characterized by:

• Tolerance: Needing increasing amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects.
• Dependence: Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
• Loss of Control: Drinking more than intended or being unable to stop.
• Neglect: Prioritizing alcohol over responsibilities, relationships, and health.
• Risky Behaviors: Engaging in dangerous activities, such as driving while intoxicated.

AUD is diagnosed when a person meets at least two of the DSM-5 criteria, which assess behaviors and symptoms over the past year. Severity is categorized as mild (2–3 symptoms), moderate (4–5 symptoms), or severe (6 or more symptoms).

How Does Alcohol Impact the Brain?

Alcohol directly affects the brain, acting as a depressant that slows motor and cognitive functions. It interacts with the brain’s pleasure and reward system by artificially increasing dopamine levels, the “feel-good” chemical. Over time, this overstimulation rewires neural pathways, reinforcing addictive behavior and growing tolerance.

Chronic alcohol use can lead to long-lasting changes in brain chemistry, making it difficult to stop drinking without professional intervention. Withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, tremors, and mood swings, often occur when alcohol consumption is reduced, further complicating the recovery process.

The Link Between Alcoholism and Other Mental Disorders

Alcoholism frequently co-occurs with other mental health disorders, a phenomenon known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, millions of adults in the U.S. experience both AUD and other mental illnesses.

Common co-occurring disorders include:

• Depression: Up to 80% of individuals with AUD report depressive symptoms.
• Anxiety Disorders: Conditions like generalized anxiety, social phobia, and PTSD are prevalent among those with AUD.
• Eating Disorders: Studies show 15–32% of women with AUD have a history of eating disorders.

These conditions often amplify each other. For instance, individuals with untreated depression may use alcohol as a form of self-medication, while heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of developing anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Is There a Cure for Alcoholism?

While there is no definitive cure for Alcohol Use Disorder, it is highly treatable with a combination of medical, psychological, and lifestyle interventions. Effective treatment options include:

• Medically Supervised Detox: Helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
• Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab: Provides structured environments for therapy and recovery.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Addresses past experiences that contribute to alcohol dependency.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Simultaneously treats AUD and co-occurring mental disorders.
• Individual and Group Therapy: Encourages the development of healthy coping mechanisms.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment

Alcoholism is a complex mental illness, but it is never too late to seek help. Even if alcohol use has caused significant physical health issues—such as liver damage or memory problems—recovery can lead to improved well-being and a better quality of life.

At facilities like Phoenix Rising, therapists specialize in holistic recovery, addressing the mental, physical, and emotional aspects of addiction. Through evidence-based practices and personalized care, individuals can regain control over their lives and build a healthier future.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Is alcoholism a mental illness? The answer is yes, and recognizing it as such is the first step toward healing. If you or a loved one is ready to address AUD and co-occurring disorders, the dedicated team at Phoenix Rising is here to help.

Call us today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and begin your journey to recovery.

Sources:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mental Health by the Numbers. Retrieved from: https://www.nami.org/mhstats 

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) American Psychiatric Association. Overview available at: https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm

American Medical Association Definition of Alcoholism as a Chronic Disease. Accessed via: https://www.ama-assn.org

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Co-occurring Disorders: Facts and Figures. Retrieved from: https://www.samhsa.gov/co-occurring-disorders

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Alcohol’s Effects on the Body and Brain. Available at: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health

National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Statistics on Co-occurring Disorders. Data source: https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2018-nsduh-annual-national-report