what is an alcholic

An alcoholic is a person who has an addiction to alcohol, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. A person with this condition can no longer control their consumption and may have a physical need to consume alcohol. Terms like “alcoholic” and “alcoholism” are increasingly seen as unhelpful and negative labels. Health professionals prefer to use the term AUD. Access to counseling, medical help, support groups, and family support can all help the individual avoid alcohol as time goes on.