Most people can drink alcohol in moderation. They can have one or two drinks and not encounter problems. Others develop alcohol related disorders, such as alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence. These individuals drink to excess and become a danger to themselves and others.

Alcohol abuse is the repeated use of alcohol that results in daily living problems while alcohol dependence pairs these problems with a physical addiction.  When alcohol or substance abuse presents problems with the individual's work, school or family life, it is time to get help.  Other warning signs include blackouts or memory lapses, withdrawal symptoms and cravings when not drinking, other health problems due to drinking, and high-risk activities (such as unsafe sex and drunk driving).

It is estimated that aproximately eight percent of American adults are abusers of alcohol at any given time. 100,000 Americans die each year of alcohol related causes.

Alcoholism can have a variety of causes, but the tendency to become addicted is elevated if there is family history of addiction.   Having a high tolerance level for alcohol is another risk factor.   Many people use alcohol as an escape mechanism from their problems.

Alcoholism has physical, social, emotional and behavioral effects.  Treatment has proven successful when adequate follow through is offered and accepted.   Alcoholics' Anonymous and other 12 step programs are popular choices in treatment.

Planet Psych Links:

Psychotherapy's Role in Effective Treatment; APA

Should You Be Concerned About Your Drinking?

Intervention May Be the Nudge People Need to Get Help

Parents' Actions Contradict Their Beliefs Concerning Teen Marijuana Use

Study Shows Strong Relationship Between Adolescent Behavior Problems and Alcohol Use

Effectively Treating Substance Abuse

Substance-Related Disorders

World Wide Web Links:

More Older Adults are Facing Addictions; Psycport

Go read up on Addiction and Recovery in our Bookstore

 

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