Alcohol Abuse
Alcoholism
by Jonathan Huttner
Alcohol abuse is an illness, an addictive behavior in which the consumption of alcohol takes precedence over all else. Currently, nearly 17.6 million American adults suffer from alcohol abuse. We are not talking about the social drinker or the individual who drinks on occasion. People suffering from alcoholism consume abnormally large amounts of alcohol. Alcohol abuse is a destructive behavior that can interfere with a person's social and professional life.
The consequences of alcoholism are devastating. Alcohol abuse can cause serious illness and in some cases result in death.
The Risks of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Alcoholism has been shown to cause many illnesses including:
- Cancer of liver, esophagus, larynx and throat
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Immune system problems
- Harm to fetus during pregnancy
- Brain Damage
In addition to the above illnesses, alcohol abuse seriously increases the risk of death from automobile accidents and on-the-job injuries.
Understanding Alcoholism
Alcoholism, or "alcohol dependence," is an addiction to alcohol. It is an illness, a disease of the brain. Alcoholism is an impairment with four distinct symptoms including:
- Craving
- Loss of control
- Physical dependence
- Tolerance to alcohol
Alcoholism has very little to do with willpower. Alcoholics are unable to stop drinking due to the powerful cravings and uncontrollable need for alcohol.
Some individuals suffering from alcoholism are able to recover on their own. The overwhelming number, however, require alcohol rehab or a residential alcohol treatment program. These facilities offer alcohol abuse treatments as well as psychological support. In addition, many facilities utilize family therapy in an effort to help all those affected by alcoholism learn how to deal with it and how to support the recovering family member.
Understanding Alcohol Abuse
A common misconception is that alcohol abuse and alcoholism are the same thing. The fact is, alcoholism does not include the extreme craving for alcohol, physical dependence or loss of control over drinking. The definition of alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that results in one of more of the following situations within a period of 12 months:
- Failure to fulfill home, work or school responsibilities
- Drinking in dangerous situations like while driving a vehicle or operating machinery
- Experiences alcohol-related legal problems, such as being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or for physically hurting someone while drunk
- Continuing to drink despite the effect it is having on personal relationships
In truth, even though alcohol abuse and alcoholism are difference they share many of the same detrimental effects. It is not unusual for people suffering the effects of alcohol abuse to enter alcohol treatment programs or alcohol rehabs.
If you are experiencing difficulties with alcohol abuse, or know anyone who is, immediate treatment should be sought. With proper treatment and medical supervision, it is possible for individuals battling alcohol abuse and those in the throws of alcoholism to return to a normal lifestyle.
Jonathan Huttner is one of the founders of Lakeview Health Systems, which has treated over 7,000 people from throughout the United States. Jonathan has been involved in the field of addiction and eating disorder treatment for the last 25 years.
