We also wanted a nutritional facts panel that felt guiltless, with all organic ingredients. I think the main reason people drink is that they want to feel something; they want stress relief, to feel relaxed and social. So we tried to tap into those feelings by using adaptogens and nootropics. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with George Youmans, cofounder of the social tonic Hiyo, a non-alcoholic beverage startup that recently partnered with Constellation Brands. This mechanism allows you to feel satiated immediately when taking a large drink of water—otherwise, you would have to wait several minutes to feel the effect. In this way, homeostasis can be maintained faster than normal digestive processes would otherwise allow.

Your addiction does not have to define who you are.

People may use alcohol as a way to numb their emotions or escape from mental health symptoms. Social drinking is a common occurrence in the U.S. and around the world. From ancient times to the colonial settlers to today, beer, wine, and spirits signify friendship and connecting with others in social settings. These instances aren’t necessarily an issue, but it’s important to know if your drinking is under control or heading into dangerous territory. Knowing the difference can help you evaluate your drinking and make changes before you develop an alcohol addiction. Our writers and reviewers are experienced professionals in medicine, addiction treatment, and healthcare.

Start Recovery Today

Many people consider themselves “social drinkers” or “occasional drinkers” and enjoy casual drinking, yet wonder whether their drinking habits could be a problem. People with unhealthy alcohol use (also called alcohol use disorder or AUD) can’t always predict how much they will drink, when they will stop, or what they will do while drinking. And it can be common for people with alcohol use disorder to deny the negative effects of drinking or that they even have a problem. Alcohol use disorder is a chronic condition that can severely affect an individual’s health and well-being. It can increase the risk of liver disease, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Addiction recovery experts say that alcohol abuse can also contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

Social Drinking, Binge Drinking, and Alcoholism: What Are the Differences?

This can become a dangerous cycle that leads to a serious problem with alcohol.

Over half of a human’s body weight is water, with approximately 65% located within the body cells, 28% in the extracellular fluid, and 7% in the blood. Young people can now engage with peers and influencers from all over the world. Smartphones and social media also make it harder for adolescents to “switch off” after school. Bullying that was formerly limited to the classroom is now inescapable, with those bullies able to reach their targets on social media and messaging apps. Food can slow the absorption of alcohol and reduce the peak level of alcohol in the body. It can also minimize stomach irritation and gastrointestinal distress the following day.

According to the heroin addiction National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, approximately 72% of people experience a period of excessive drinking in their lifetime. Binge drinkers can often function normally in their day-to-day lives, but it’s a dangerous habit. During this stage, the body adapts to higher alcohol intake and can develop a chemical dependence.

Addiction Treatment Programs

• It’s all too common that problem drinking disrupts bonds with a spouse, family members, friends, coworkers, or employers.
• It’s worth noting that current guidelines advise against drinking alcohol as a way to improve health.
• At Recovery Delivered, we offer 100% online medication-assisted treatment for drug and alcohol addiction.

Not only do some people end up drinking too much when socializing, but they may start drinking outside of social occasions. The occasional beer or cocktail after work or on your day off may quickly become a few drinks several nights a week. While social drinking and alcoholism have overlapping characteristics, they also have striking differences.

How to Combat Drinking Problems and Alcoholism

However, people with a drinking problem cannot control their drinking habits.Regular social drinking isn’t an indication of alcoholism but can lead to it. The moment a social drinker keeps increasing their intake and can’t control it anymore, it becomes a drinking problem. Drinking problems have various effects on physical and mental health but can be solved through alcohol rehab or counseling.

Why Do Alcohol Drinkers Prefer Kratom While Taking A Break From Drinking?

Likewise, many business networking events take place at bars or restaurants that serve alcohol. A good portion of people would classify themselves as social drinkers. They don’t typically drink on their own but do so with friends, family, colleagues and so on. A defining trait of social drinkers is their keen understanding of the social context in which they consume alcohol. They are attuned to the guidelines and cultural expectations surrounding drinking, adapting their behavior accordingly. With a respectful approach, they maintain decorum and harmony within the group, ensuring that their actions align with the prevailing social norms.

If you feel as though your social drinking or that of a loved one has lead to alcohol abuse, treatment is available. At Gateway, our evidence-based alcohol addiction programs offer hope and healing. If you would like to learn more, we what is social drinking invite you to contact us today.