Recognizing Alcohol Abuse

 

Alcohol abuse statistics show that it is a growing problem in all sections of society. Sometimes, it is very clear that a loved one has a problem. However, social drinking has become so normalized that often a person's dependency on alcohol goes completely unnoticed. It can take some time for those closest to the person to realize how many units of alcohol are being consumed, and that the addict cannot forgo their usual drink.

There are both physical and mental effects which are associated with the abuse of alcohol. Some of these effect are common to all types of drug addiction. The psychological effects include:

* Irritability or angry outbursts.
* Fatigue or insomnia.
* Avoiding social venues which do not serve alcohol.
* Reckless behavior, such as drunk driving.
* A negative impact on work or social commitments, such as perpetual lateness due to a hangover.

A drink problem also manifests itself in a physical way. As an isolated incident, these do not represent an alcohol addiction. The person may, however, have a drink problem if these symptoms become a normal and regular part of life.

* Weight loss, due to a person neglecting food in favor of drinking.
* Falling unconscious or suffering blackouts.
* Dizziness.
* Digestive problems, such as nausea.
* Tingling in the limbs, particularly in the hands.

Once the dependency reaches a certain level, alcohol addiction becomes much harder to treat. The dependency becomes hardwired into the brain, and attempting to give up alcohol causes very unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. In this instance, it is especially important to seek proper medical advice and support regarding alcohol abuse treatment.

Support from friends and family will be very important in the recovery process. This can put a lot of pressure on family members, so support and advice is often offered to them throughout the process as well.