Alcoholic beverages have been used througout history for social, medicinal, and religious purposes. Today, alcohol is used at social gatherings, celebrations, and often for relaxation. 
Most drinkers consume alcohol responsibly. But alcohol is also a drug that can cause addiction. Alcohol abuse and dependency tears apart families, disrupts workplaces, and jeopardizes the wellbeing of anyone in contact with the alcoholic.
Recovery from alcohol addictions often involves medical treatment, psychological counseling, and support from family and friends. Alcohol treatment centers provide a safe space for recovery; others may find various programs helpful.
Explore our Alcohol Center to learn more about using alcohol responsibly, alcohol abuse and dependence, and diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from alcohol addiction.
Find Out More About Alcohol Use and Abuse
What is alcohol?
What Is alcohol abuse?
What is moderate drinking?
Who is alcoholic?
Problems Caused By Alcohol
Alcohol Warning Signs
How to help an alcoholic
Treating Alcohol Abuse
Top tips to cut down on your drinking:
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol
Q: Do all alcohol abusers and alcoholics drink a lot every day?
Q: What other disorders often occur along with alcohol problems?
Q: Do I have to stop drinking if I am taking prescription or over-the-counter medicine?
Where to get help:
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
1-800-729-6686
http://www.health.org/
National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service
1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357)
http://www.health.org/phone.htm
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
(301) 443-3860 website: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
Glossary of Alcohol Terms
Alcohol abuse: A pattern of alcohol use that causes problems in any aspect of a person’s life.
Alcohol dependence (alcoholism): a chronic, progressive, and potentially fatal disease in which a person is ...
Alcoholic: A person who is dependent on alcohol and has the disease of alcoholism.
At-risk drinking: Drinking that poses a risk of developing problems. Men: more than 14 drinks per week or more than 4 drinks per ...