Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are both serious problems, but different disorders. Alcoholism, or alcohol dependence, involves a compulsion to drink, a high tolerance for alcohol, and a loss of control over drinking; alcohol abuse, meanwhile, is characterized by recurring high-risk drinking that has negative effects on the user's life, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. "The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" lists four symptoms of alcohol abuse.
Failure to Fulfill Obligations
An alcohol abuser may neglect her responsibilities for school, work, or family because she's intoxicated, or suffering from a hangover. A student might skip classes, fail to turn in schoolwork, see a drop in grades, or get expelled. An employed alcohol abuser might frequently call in sick, and see the quality of her work decrease --- both of which could lead to job loss. An abuser might also drink while in school, at work, or at home, and cancel social engagements or fail to perform family duties as a result of inebriation.
Drinking in Dangerous Situations
A person who abuses alcohol might drink in situations that pose a health risk to himself or others. Repeatedly drinking while driving, operating machinery, or engaging in sports or other hazardous activities would all be considered alcohol abuse. An alcohol abuser might also drink while taking medication that interacts negatively with alcohol, or while experiencing health problems that can be worsened by alcohol.
Legal Problems
When drinking leads to legal trouble, it may be a symptom of alcohol abuse. An alcohol abuser might have been arrested for driving under the influence, which can lead to suspension of her driver's license. Disorderly conduct, domestic disputes, and other alcohol-related offenses can be indicative of alcohol abuse.
Interpersonal Problems
An alcohol abuser may try to hide his drinking from others, or lie about the extent of the problem. The abuser might ignore or reject efforts from loved ones to discuss the abuse, and argue with friends and family about the topic. He may experience blackouts or guilt about drinking, or the negative behavior it causes. His relationships might also suffer, but he will continue to drink despite the social difficulties resulting from alcohol abuse.
Binge-Drinking
While not listed in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Medical Disorders," binge drinking could also be a sign of alcohol abuse. Moderate drinking, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, consists of one drink per day for women, and two drinks per day for men. Binge drinking, as defined by National Advisory Council on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, results when the drinker's blood-alcohol level reaches 0.08%, which usually occurs after consuming five drinks in two hours for men, and four drinks in two hours for women.
