Alcoholism is an addictive dependency on alcohol characterised by craving (a strong need to drink); loss of control; physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms; and tolerance.
Alcoholism is often seen as a “disease of affluence,” being uncommon among indigenous people until they become “civilized.” Alcoholism is a life-threatening problem that often ends in death, particularly through liver disease, internal bleeding, alcohol poisoning, accidents and suicide.
Alcohol because it is legal, is without a doubt the most currently abused substance, in the world. Alcohol comes in four types, with ethyl alcohol (grain alcohol, or ETOH) as the type humans ordinarily consume. It is frequently taken socially providing a sense of relaxation and to minimize inhibitions. In a non-social setting, alcohol is typically taken to escape stress and provide repose.
Alcoholism as a disease can be determined by predisposing factors, such as heredity, ethnic susceptibility, and abnormal metabolism. Most people who drink alcohol do not have a problem, and many others can stop drinking without a struggle. However, some people develop a substance use disorder of alcohol or drugs that is compulsive and dangerous.
The common Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse are:
- Craving: a strong need, or compulsion, to drink alcohol and/or other drugs
- Loss of control: the inability to limit one’s drinking on any given occasion
- Physical dependence: Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting,sweating, shakiness, convulsions, irritability and anxiety, occur when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.
The consequences of alcohol abuse are serious, in many cases, life threatening. Drinking can raise the risk for certain cancers, especially those of the liver, esophagus, throat, and larynx (voice box). Abusive drinking increases the risk of death from car accidents and on-the-job injuries. In addition serious drinkers can also develop liver cirrhosis, brain damage, immune system problems,and harm their fetus during pregnancy.
Unfortunately, both homicides and suicides are more likely to be committed by people who have been drinking. In economic terms, alcohol-related problems cost society millions per year. In human terms,the costs can not be calculated.
Alcoholism Rehabilitation
Alcoholism Rehabilitation Centers should offer a variety of treatment programs that meet individual needs. Programs may include inpatient, residential, outpatient, and/or short-stay options. The length of stay depends on the severity and stage of the disease.
Treatment programs combine therapeutic approaches including: 12-step principles, experiential work, grief sessions, sauna detoxification, family participation and aftercare; in order to change destructive patterns and achieve a more fulfilling self.
Daily meeting and activities of individuals with their personal counselor that focuses on the issues each person faces, individually as they work on their recovery; during which the individual can best utilize his or her time through motivational resident-centered activities.
Alcoholic Anonymous
Practically all alcoholism treatment programs also include Alcoholics Anonymous(AA) meetings to help individuals stay sober. Although AA is generallyrecognized as an effective mutual help program for recovering alcoholics, not everyone responds to AA’s message. Even people who are helped by AA usually find that AA works best in combination with other forms of treatment, including counseling, medical care and holistic therapies.
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