What is alcoholism?
Alcoholism is one of the most serious pathology.
Alcoholism is sometimes known as alcohol addiction or alcohol dependence.
It’s slightly different to ‘harmful drinking’ which is an occasional pattern of drinking which can cause damage your health. An example of harmful drinking is drinking too much at a party, and risking a fall or argument. This pattern may develop into alcoholism if that kind of harmful drinking becomes a habit and happens on a regular basis.
What are the symptoms of alcoholism?
It can be tricky to spot the signs of alcoholism as alcoholics can be secretive about it - this is why if you see a family member, friend, or loved one while drinking, or pointing out the problem, do not be surprised if he or she gets very angry!
However, if someone close to you is showing any of the following signs, it may be that they’re suffering from alcoholism:
- A lack of interest in previously normal activities
- Appearing intoxicated more regularly
- Needing to drink more in order to achieve the same effects
- Appearing tired, unwell or irritable
- An inability to say no to alcohol
- Anxiety, depression or other mental health problems
- Becoming secretive or dishonest
How to treat alcoholism
In many cases, the first step of treating alcoholism is acknowledging there is a problem. As with many health problems the second step is to seek help from a healthcare professional.
There are different treatments available for people diagnosed with alcoholism but a key stage of treatment is detoxification. Detox involves stopping drinking completely so that the body can adjust to being without alcohol. During this time, a person may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Special attention is paid to psychological and psychosocial factors in the treatment process.
It is quite possible to prescribe drug therapy.
It is recommended to join anonymous groups of people with alcoholism, where people addicted to alcohol share their knowledge and experience with each other.
Source:
https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcoholism
