I like to drink. I really enjoy a beer in the evening. A glass of wine is very nice, and the occasional harder drink suits me just fine. But, I don't 'abuse' alcohol. Even if I did, it would not be a criminal matter until I injured someone else, or destroyed property.

If I were to smoke pot or do some other form of drug, but do it in the privacy of my own recreational time, how is that any different than sitting down for a few drinks?

If I take drugs and then get in my car, that should be punishable. If I show up at work having taken drugs, they should be able to terminate me. It's absolutely no different in either situation if the "drug" is alcohol.

If someone is an abuser, it's medical. It is a problem they have with being addicted to whatever. You can be addicted to just about anything... drugs, alcohol, sex, cigarettes, theft, driving fast... the list goes on.

Medically speaking those who are inclined to abuses typically have a chemical imbalance. They can't fight the craving for their vice. They need the fix. It's how they relax. There isn't anything criminal about their behavior until they impose themself on another individuals' rights. That's where the criminality comes in.