Alkoholistit

Alkoholistit is the Finnish term for individuals with an alcohol use disorder or chronic, problematic alcohol consumption. In everyday language it often refers to people who rely on alcohol to cope and have difficulty cutting back despite negative consequences. Clinically, the concern is defined as alcohol use disorder (AUD).

AUD arises from a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors. A family history of substance use disorders, coexisting mental health conditions, adverse childhood experiences, stress, and environments where alcohol is readily available can increase risk.

Core features include craving, loss of control over intake, withdrawal symptoms when drinking stops, development of tolerance, and continued use despite physical or social harms. Diagnostic criteria are defined in DSM-5 or ICD-11 and range from mild to severe, guiding treatment decisions.

The condition affects health and society: higher risk of liver and cardiovascular diseases, cancers, accidents, mental health disorders, and social consequences such as impaired work performance and strained relationships.

Treatment and support are individualized and may include medical detoxification when necessary, psychosocial therapies (motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy), and pharmacotherapies such as naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram. Long-term recovery often involves mutual-help groups (such as AA) and sustained support, with goals ranging from abstinence to controlled drinking, depending on the person.