Alcoholism Information
Alcohol is a depressant drug that affects the central nervous system and can reduce a person’s anxiety level, inhibition, and feelings of guilt. Those who drink alcohol habitually have a chronic illness; though each individual’s consumption pattern may vary in terms of frequency and amount of intake. Early stages of alcohol abuse and dependence may go unrecognized by family, friends and co-workers. As the disease progresses, alcohol consumption progressively impacts physical and/or mental health and family, friendships and work responsibilities are affected. Alcohol produces both physical and psychological addiction. Those with alcoholism can't process alcohol in their bodies like others who can drink without problems. The disease lowers awareness, impairs judgment, perception, and motor coordination. In higher doses, it can cause you to lose consciousness, and even to die. Chronic alcoholism damages the heart, liver, brain, and other organs. Symptoms of Alcoholism Disease
People who abuse alcohol – and who have not yet become dependent or addicted – have excessive drinking habits that are not accompanied by the symptoms of alcoholism listed above. Alcohol abuse is characterized by one or more of the following conditions over a twelve-month period:
Treating the Disease Like all addictions, treating alcoholism is complex and challenging. Depending on circumstances, treatment may involve one or more of the following: intervention, residential or outpatient program, counseling, medication, nutrition management, and/or ongoing support program participation. There is no cure for the disease. Yet, through proper and timely treatment and ongoing follow-up, alcohol-addicted individuals can live productive, happy lives.
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More than alcoholism information on our alcoholism facts page
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