Table of Contents
What is Alcoholism?
- Alcoholism, also called Alcohol addiction, is a disease affecting people from all walks of life. Experts have tried to identify genetics, gender, race, or socioeconomic economy predisposing someone to alcohol addiction.
- But it doesn’t have a single cause. Psychological, genetic, and behavioral factors can contribute to the disease. It is challenging to control drinking due to physical and emotional addiction to alcohol.
- So, It is important to note that alcoholism is an actual disease that causes changes in the brain and neurochemistry, so a person with an alcohol addiction may not control their actions.
- Alcoholism can manifest itself in several ways. The severity of the disease, how often a person drinks and the alcohol they consume vary from person to person. Besides, some people drink a lot during the day, while others binge and then stay sober for a while.
- Symptoms include repeated alcohol use despite related health and legal issues. People with alcoholism may start each day with a drink, feel guilty about drinking, and desire to reduce the amount of alcohol.
- And also, treatment involves consulting healthcare professionals. A detox program at a hospital or medical facility is an option for those who need additional assistance. Drugs are available that reduce the desire to drink.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
Alcoholism can be difficult to recognize. Unlike cocaine or heroin, alcohol is widely available and accepted in many cultures. It is often the focus of social situations to celebrations and fun.
So, It is challenging to recognize and widely available and accepted in many cultures.
- Higher quantity or frequency of use
- High alcohol tolerance with “hangover.”
- Drinking at unsuitable times, like first thing in the morning, or places like church or work
- Changes in friendships; alcohol addicted person chooses friends who also drink a lot
- Avoid contact with loved ones
- Hiding alcohol or hiding while drinking
- Increased lethargy, depression, or other emotional problems
- Legal or professional issues, such as an arrest or job loss.
As an addiction tends to increase, paying attention to the early warning signs is essential. Besides, If identified and treated early, a person with alcohol addiction can avoid the significant consequences of the disease.
If you are concerned that a person is addicted to alcohol, it is best to approach them in a supportive way. So, avoid embarrassing them or making them feel guilty.
Health Complications with Alcoholism
Alcohol addiction can lead to :
- Heart and liver disease
- Ulcers
- Complications of diabetes
- Sexual problems
- Congenital disabilities
- Bone loss
- Poor eyesight
- Increased risk of cancer
- Suppressed immune function
These complications are the reasons why it is essential to treat alcohol addiction early. With a successful long-term recovery, almost all the risks associated with alcohol addiction can be avoided or treated.
Treatment for Alcoholism
- Treating alcohol addiction can be challenging. For the treatment to work, the person with an alcohol addiction must want to be sober. Success depends on the person’s desire to improve.
- The process of recovering from alcoholism is a lifelong commitment. There is no quick fix, and it is the daily cure. For this reason, many people claim that alcohol addiction is never “cured.”
- Rehabilitation – An inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation program is a standard initial treatment option for alcohol addiction.
- Alcoholics Anonymous and other support groups
- Many alcohol addicts are also turning to 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Other support groups do not follow the 12-step model, such as SMART Recovery Sober Recovery.
- Pharmacological therapy helps teach someone how to manage the stress of recovery and the skills needed to prevent a relapse.
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