Crossing the Line From Alcohol Use to Abuse to Dependence

Most people are unaware there is a line comprised of the three stages of drinking: alcohol use, abuse and dependence, believing instead that drinking is either “normal” or “alcoholic.” Most people are unaware there are increments along the line itself, that 35% of American adults never drink alcohol, or that 37% of American adults always drink within “low-risk” drinking limits. Thus examining and challenging the common myths from a scientific perspective can help readers recognize what it takes to cross the line from alcohol use to abuse to dependence and what it takes to stop the progression.