Welcome to an exploration of the complex and pressing topic of alcoholism, where we delve into its multifaceted aspects, seeking to shed light on “Alcoholism definition,” “Alcoholism Meaning,” and its classification in the “Alcoholism ICD-10.” Understanding the definition and meaning of alcoholism is crucial in addressing the challenges it presents to individuals, families, and society at large. Additionally, delving into its ICD-10 classification provides insights into how healthcare professionals diagnose and treat this disorder. Through this examination, we aim to foster a deeper comprehension of alcoholism and its implications for individuals’ well-being and public health.
We wrote this article about alcohol so that people can understand it from the perspective of someone who has experienced alcoholism. It can be difficult for others to comprehend, and we hope this piece helps provide a clearer understanding. For those living with an alcoholic family member or friend who might blame themselves, understanding the alcoholic’s mindset can hopefully help them come to terms with the fact that it’s not their fault.
Alcoholism
Consider this a warning; brutal honesty lies ahead. In fact, I can’t avoid brutal honesty because, as an alcoholic, nothing matters except for my next drink – not even the truth.
I am an alcoholic. Not your friend, not your partner, not your parent or your child. That person is gone, leaving only the idea and memory of who I once was to you.
In fact, it’s impossible for me to care about anything other than alcohol. I can’t even care about you. The only thing I can manage to care about—or look forward to—is my next drink.
It’s not a want; it’s a need, and I’ll go through you to make sure my needs are met.
The reality is that when I look at you, all I see is opportunity. But not an opportunity for love or support…an opportunity to manipulate my way to my next sweet, intoxicating sip.
It doesn’t matter who you are to me. It doesn’t matter what you need. As long as you have money, I’ll keep you in my life – but only at an arm’s length, of course. Because if you have money, you are valuable to me. It doesn’t matter if you have bills to pay, it doesn’t matter if you’re hungry, or sick, or poor. As long as you have enough for me to steal or sell, you are still useful to me…for now.
And so, I’ll lurk in the background. I’ll wait until your walls are down, or until you are not looking. I will take what you have to get what I need. And I simply don’t care how that makes you feel.
While you might think you can love me hard enough to change me, or support me long enough to save me, you simply could not be more wrong. Your love no longer matters to me. I don’t care if you’re upset, sad, angry, or disappointed, though I might lie and tell you I do in order to get my hands on your last dollar.
My value system is compromised, and my morals have flown out the window. It doesn’t matter what I have to say or do; I’ll say and do whatever to get my next sip. I’ll continue to lie, cheat, and steal from you to feed the monster in me, the monster that craves alcohol and chaos. I’m no longer me; I’m just the monster. And the monster doesn’t care if your heart gets broken.
Strangely, you might grow fond of the monster inside me. Because you know that when the monster gets hungry, you – and your wallet – have my attention, my facade of love. But once you’ve given in to the monster, and I’ve gotten what I need, I’ll turn my back on you again to drink, drink, drink myself away. You’ll continue to reach out, to check on me, to offer your help. And the monster will happily accept.
By supporting me, you help keep me sick and imprisoned by the monster. You might believe that you’re making a positive impact on my life, but what you’re really doing is tightening the grip that alcohol has on me.
This dance we do will lead us to death. My body – and mind – will betray me, or you’ll be left without a penny to your name, broken-hearted and stressed to death. I’ll shrug it off like it’s nothing. We can blame the monster; we can blame the alcohol.”
Alcoholism Definition:
Alcoholism, also referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic and potentially severe medical condition characterized by an individual’s uncontrollable and compulsive consumption of alcohol, despite the negative consequences it brings to their life, health, relationships, and overall well-being. People suffering from alcoholism often experience cravings for alcohol, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or reduce their alcohol intake. This disorder can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health, and it often requires comprehensive treatment and support to overcome.
Alcoholism Meaning:
The meaning of alcoholism encompasses the complex and multifaceted nature of the disorder, indicating a pattern of excessive and problematic alcohol consumption that results in significant impairment in various aspects of an individual’s life. It entails a loss of control over alcohol intake, preoccupation with drinking, and continued use despite adverse consequences. Alcoholism is not merely a matter of drinking excessively but a serious medical condition with a range of physical, psychological, and social implications, often necessitating professional intervention and treatment.
Alcoholism ICD-10:
In the International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition (ICD-10), alcoholism is classified under the code F10. It falls under the broader category of “Mental and Behavioral Disorders due to Psychoactive Substance Use.” Specifically, F10 encompasses various forms of alcohol use disorders, ranging from harmful patterns of alcohol consumption to severe alcohol dependence. The ICD-10 coding system is utilized by healthcare professionals worldwide to diagnose and classify medical conditions, including alcoholism, facilitating standardized recognition and treatment of the disorder in clinical settings.
