Definition of Alcoholism

Personally, I don't gain much value from definitions because inevitably there will always be contrasting views and opinions on what something is and isn't - so that it can all become a bit confusing.

But if you're a logical, left brained type and think a definition will be helpful, here's one I really like that I read at enotalone.com ...

"Alcoholism is a primary illness or disorder characterised by some loss of control over drinking, with habituation or addiction to the drug alcohol, causing interference in any major life function, e.g. health, family, job, spiritual, friends,legal."

Notice there that it doesn't say anything about how much you drink. So having a drinking problem isn't defined by quantity - but rather loss of control, which ultimately causes problems in other areas of your life, i.e. health, work, relationships etc.

Bottom line is as soon as your drinking begins to effect any areas of your life, you know that there is a problem.

Go to the symptoms of alcoholism section if you want to discover whether you or someone you care about is actually an alcoholic.

For further understanding of alcoholism, I also suggest you read the alcoholism hereditary and alcoholism and genetics links.

The definition I gave you though is a really good one, which will definitely help you with your understanding.

And more importantly, having all the knowledge and understanding of what alcoholism and drug addiction is will only get you so far. Remember it's what you do with that knowledge and understanding that matters.