Addiction Treatment Center
Speak with an rehab
|
| Alcohol Addiction |
|
Alcohol Addiction is a type of drug addiction. There is both physical and mental dependence on alcohol. Alcoholism is divided into 2 categories: dependence and abuse. People who are dependent on alcohol spend a great deal of time drinking alcohol, and getting it. Physical dependence involves: • A need for increasing amounts of alcohol to get drunk or achieve the desired effect (tolerance)• Alcohol-related illnesses • Memory lapses (blackouts) after drinking episodes • Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is stopped The most severe drinking behavior includes long drinking binges that lead to mental or physical problems. Some people are able to gain control over their dependence in earlier phases before they totally lose control. But no one knows which heavy drinkers will be able to regain control and which will not. There is no known common cause of alcoholism. However, several factors may play a role in its development. A person who has an alcoholic parent is more likely to become an alcoholic than a person without alcoholism in the immediate family. Research suggests that certain genes may increase the risk of alcoholism, but which genes or how they work is not known. Many people with alcohol problems don't recognize when their drinking gets out of hand. In the past, treatment providers believed that alcoholics should be confronted about their drinking problems, but now research has shown that compassion and empathy are more effective. The ideal approach is to help people realize the negative impact alcohol abuse is having on their life, and on the lives of those around them. They can aim for a personal goal of leading a more fulfilling and sober life. Studies find that more people enter treatment if their family members or employers are honest with them about their concerns, and try to help them see that drinking is preventing them from reaching their goals. The incidence of alcohol intake and related problems is rising. Data indicate that about 15% of people in the United States are problem drinkers, and about 5% to 10% of male drinkers and 3% to 5% of female drinkers could be diagnosed as alcohol dependent. Alcohol affects the central nervous system as a depressant. This leads to a decrease in: • Activity • Anxiety • Inhibitions • Tension Even a few drinks can change behavior, slow motor skills, and decrease the ability to think clearly. Alcohol can impair concentration and judgment. Drinking a lot of alcohol can cause drunkenness (intoxication). |
| Contact Us |
| Success Stories |
| FAQs |