Many people don't realize that there is a difference between being an alcoholic and having an alcohol abuse problem. Those who are what some call "functioning alcoholics" are actually people with alcohol abuse problems. They clearly drink way too much on a regular basis and have some of the same symptoms of alcoholism such as health related issues.

Alcohol abusers usually have some resemblance of normality or have control over their actions. They set limits or only allow themselves to drink at specific times, but still consume way more than the average social drinker.

Alcoholics are unable to control their drinking at any point. They are physically, emotionally, and mentally addicted to alcohol. The consequences of alcoholism can be severe in regards to both mental and physical health, and how they function in the everyday world. Alcoholics, also known as those with alcoholism or an alcohol addiction, are unable to control their drinking at any time.

This distinction is very important in deciding the type of help one needs to become alcohol free. Alcohol abusers will need more emotional and psychological assistance while an alcoholic will also need more of the physical help in overcoming the continual consumption of alcohol.

There has been a lot of talk recently about the connection between alcoholism and the increase in domestic violence. Research carried out in many universities though says that the alcohol factor in these cases may be misleading.

The underlying fact the matter is whether domestic violence cases are related to the abuse of alcohol or if alcoholic abuse is brought on by domestic violence, a bit like the chicken and the egg mystery...which came first? Whatever the reasons are, there is no doubt that alcohol does play a part in the domestic violence experienced by so many families on a daily occurrence. Both adults and children suffer alike the consequences as much as any family member can be the alcoholic who is dishing out the abuse.

The only way for these occurring problems to cease to exist is by coming to terms with the reality of the situation and that all parties involved admit to the problem of alcoholism. The problem is that alcohol consumption does not help when it comes to rash discussion only in making it become violent.

You may be thinking that you know a family as we have just described or maybe it's your own family, but I hope this has opened your eyes and made you realize that it is wake up time. In order to assist people with alcohol abuse and domestic violence problems there are certain organizations that are more than willing to assist in getting people to face up to their problems and to help support in their recovery. Check out the following link at StopDrinking for ways in stopping alcohol abuse and domestic violence.