Author: Charles Frank

Things You May Not Know About Alcohol Use Disorder

And while alcohol can initially make you feel looser and at ease (again, because it’s a depressant), the effects don’t last long. In fact, alcohol may actually cause more anxiety the day after. When it comes to alcohol, the line between fiction and fact is often blurry. Whether it’s at a party with friends or through pop culture references, there are quite a few things about drinking alcohol that get misconstrued.

Myth: Drinking is always safe in moderation.

  1. So if you have chronic pain, it’s best to put down that drink.
  2. In truth, coffee has no real effect on your blood alcohol level, which is the major factor in determining your level of intoxication.
  3. Not everyone who starts drinking at a young age will necessarily develop the condition.
  4. You don’t necessarily need to be drunk for alcohol to affect your decision making abilities.
  5. Evidence also shows that continuing to drink in moderation while in recovery may heighten your cravings for alcohol.

Over the past two decades, there has been a steady rise in AUDs among those ages 65 and older. What’s more, people with AUD who are middle-aged and older are at a significantly higher risk for suicide compared to their younger counterparts. Receive free access to exclusive content, a personalized homepage based on your interests, and a weekly newsletter with the topics of your choice.

Myth: Older people don’t develop alcohol use disorder

Understanding alcohol’s risks and effects on the body can help you better assess your own consumption habits. Remember, alcohol affects everyone differently, and problem drinking can impact anyone at any age. Binge drinking is never safe, but even lower level alcohol use creates health risks. Alcohol is alcohol, so sticking to beer or mixing your drinks won’t minimize it’s effects. If you think you might be consuming too much, are using alcohol to cope with physical or mental health symptoms, or just want to cut back, talk to your doctor about strategies that can help.

Treatment & Support

Think about it this way – would we judge someone with diabetes or cancer for having an illness? Addiction works in the same way, affecting both our physical and mental health. Contrary to popular belief, not all alcoholics guzzle booze 24/7. Many alcoholics may have periods of sobriety or only drink on certain occasions.

Myth 8: Alcohol only hurts your liver

In truth, coffee has no real effect on your blood alcohol level, which is the major factor in determining your level of intoxication. A classic misconception – that some people can handle their booze better than others. While it may seem like those who can knock back several drinks without stumbling are in control, it’s not necessarily a sign of lower alcoholism risk. It’s not just about enjoying a cold one with friends or having an occasional drink at a party – oh no!

Myth: It’s OK to get drunk every once in a while.

And while it may seem harmless to live by some of these “tips,” some of these alcohol myths can put your health at risk. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is committed to delivering original, truthful, accurate, unbiased, and medically current information. We strive to create content that is clear, concise, and easy to understand. If you or your loved one is ready to embrace sobriety, American Addiction Centers can help. With treatment centers scattered across the U.S., AAC offers all of the aforementioned care plus special programs for unique populations (e.g., Veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ population, etc.). Contact AAC at to explore treatment options, verify your insurance/explore other payment options, and take your first steps toward recovery today.

People with higher socioeconomic status may be more likely even to drink more than people from under-resourced communities. You’ve probably heard the old saying, “Beer before liquor never sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear.” Or the phrase, “Beer before whiskey, always risky. Whiskey before beer, never fear.” Binge drinking can also result in violent behavior, either towards yourself or others.

This means that alcohol can reduce sex drive and impact a person’s ability to maintain an erection. By Buddy TBuddy T is a writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. Because he is a member of a support group that stresses the importance of anonymity at the public level, he does not use his photograph or his real name on this website. Dr. Kling recommends that people going through menopause limit alcohol to one drink a day or less, in addition to eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Myth #1: Alcoholism is solely caused by an addictive substance

It’s a legitimate illness that affects millions of people worldwide. Coffee might make you feel more awake, but it won’t speed up the elimination of alcohol from your system. They may give you a temporary shock, but they won’t miraculously sober you up.