Source: Fox News
Summary
Brad Pitt has revealed that he resumed drinking alcohol in moderation after seven years of sobriety, which has raised concerns among some addiction experts. Pitt said he drinks in a more restrained manner and doesn’t consume big quantities of alcohol. However, addiction specialist Jessica Steinman advises against returning to alcohol after a problematic relationship with it, warning that “testing the waters” can be dangerous. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol use disorder (AUD) as an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences.
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The advice sounds familiar. The recommendation enters another phase. The approach of moderation is a common theme in health guidance. The NIAAA notes that alcohol addiction involves changes across multiple brain systems related to rewards, stress, and decision-making. Steinman likens addiction to diabetes or heart disease, emphasizing the need for lifelong management. The guidance on moderation is often cautious, with warnings about the potential for relapse.
Brad Pitt’s decision to resume drinking in moderation raises questions about the effectiveness of this approach. As Steinman notes, moderation can mean different things to different people. The NIAAA advises that specific treatment goals should be decided between the patient and a doctor or addiction specialist.
Author: Evan Null
