Alcohol - Getting the Facts

For many people, the facts about alcoholism are not clear. What is alcoholism, exactly? How does it differ from alcohol abuse? When should a person seek help for a problem related to his or her drinking?

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) has prepared the following information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems.

The information below will explain alcoholism and alcohol abuse, symptoms of each, when and where to seek help, treatment choices, and additional helpful resources.

A Widespread Problem

What Is Alcoholism?

What Is Alcohol Abuse?

What Are the Signs of a Problem?

The Decision To Get Help

Getting Well

New Directions

Resources

Printed copies of this brochure are no longer available from the NIAAA web site.