Evidence-based definitions and guides to help you understand alcohol-related terms, conditions, and recovery concepts.
A medical condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol use despite negative consequences.
A pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration to 0.08% or higher, typically 4-5 drinks in two hours.
Physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a heavy drinker suddenly stops or reduces consumption.
The state of living without alcohol, encompassing both physical abstinence and emotional recovery.
A condition where the body has adapted to alcohol and requires it to function normally.
An awareness-based approach to alcohol that involves paying attention to why, when, and how much you drink.
A movement of people questioning their relationship with alcohol without committing to full sobriety.
Strategies aimed at reducing the negative consequences of alcohol use rather than requiring abstinence.
When someone maintains daily responsibilities while struggling with alcohol dependency.
When the body requires more alcohol to achieve the same effects due to repeated exposure.
Intense urges or desires to drink that can be triggered by emotions, situations, or physical dependence.
The process of allowing the body to eliminate alcohol while managing withdrawal symptoms.
A severe, potentially life-threatening form of alcohol withdrawal requiring immediate medical attention.
Memory gaps caused by alcohol's effect on the brain's ability to form new memories.
A dangerous, potentially fatal condition caused by drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short time.
The percentage of alcohol in a person's bloodstream, used to measure intoxication level.
The collection of unpleasant symptoms experienced after heavy alcohol consumption.
A return to drinking after a period of sobriety, a common part of the recovery process.
A public health campaign encouraging people to abstain from alcohol for the month of January.
Consuming alcohol in social settings, typically in moderation and within cultural norms.
The complex relationship between alcohol use and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
How alcohol disrupts sleep quality, patterns, and overall rest despite feeling sedating.
Non-alcoholic alternatives that provide the social experience of drinking without the alcohol.
Key achievements and markers of progress in the journey to sobriety.
The process of recognizing situations, emotions, or environments that prompt the urge to drink.