An alcoholic is someone who has developed a dependency on alcohol, characterized by an inability to control drinking despite negative effects on their life. Key factors that make someone an alcoholic include:

• Craving: A strong need or compulsion to drink alcohol.
• Loss of Control: Inability to limit the amount or frequency of drinking.
• Physical Dependence: Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating, or nausea when not drinking.
• Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect.
• Continued Use Despite Harm: Drinking even though it causes problems in health, relationships, or work.

Alcoholism is a chronic disease influenced by genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors.