Is there a specific point where someone turns from a social drinker into an alcoholic?

Is there a specific point where someone turns from a social drinker into an alcoholic?

Gail Priddy (Deputy Director) gives expert video advice on: What is alcoholism?; What is the difference between being an alcoholic and just drinking a lot?; Is alcoholism a disease? and more...

Yes, when they develop a physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms, which are the body's way of letting you know that it wants more alcohol because the alcohol's leaving your body: sweats, shakes, nausea, cramps, vomiting, a desire for more alcohol, is a time when you've actually got quite a serious problem. But bear in mind that this develops over time, and actual history can be up to 20 years of someone having withdrawal symptoms, starting to recognize they've got difficulties.