Alcohol addiction abuse is a disease of the brain. It impairs an individual’s cognitive process and prevents the person from making sound decisions. The addict may distance themselves from their peers and family members. They may lapse in their responsibilities, causing problems in their personal and professional lives. In some instances, the individual may become combative, getting into trouble with the law. The addict’s loved ones may be at a loss as to how to get their loved one help. Unfortunately, the only way the addict can be successful in recovery is by first admitting to their alcohol addiction in the first place. Only then can the healing truly begin with the help of expert alcohol addiction treatment services.
An individual’s susceptibility to alcohol addiction abuse stems from a variety of factors. These factors include genetics, socioeconomic environment, and how the addict was raised.
Also, an individual who suffers from mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety, is at a higher risk of developing an addiction to alcohol.
Alcohol abuse is much different from alcohol addiction since alcohol abusers still have the capability to set limits to their drinking. There are many signs to look out for if you suspect that someone you know may have an alcohol abuse problem:
- Constantly neglecting responsibilities
- Engaging in risky behavior while under the influence
- Drinking despite knowing the consequences of drinking
- Using alcohol as a means to relax and unwind from a stressful day
As someone delves deeper into their drinking, the individual’s body may become tolerant of the level of alcohol being consumed. When this happens, two things will occur:
- The body will become unable to function without alcohol.
- The body will require an increased amount of alcohol in order to become intoxicated.
- And this is where addiction to alcohol comes into play.
Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction
- Alcohol addiction is the worst form of a drinking problem. It encompasses all the symptoms of alcohol abuse, but it includes one unfortunate factor, i.e., physical dependence on alcohol. Other symptoms of an addiction to alcohol include the following:
- Withdrawal symptoms: These symptoms include: anxiety, sweating, depression, fatigue, and nausea.
- Loss of control over drinking
- Unable to quit drinking
- Neglecting everyday activities in order to drink
An individual who is addicted to alcohol may have a lot of denial about their drinking. This can be a frustrating obstacle for loved ones as they try to intervene in the addiction. In the addict’s mind, they find a means to rationalize their drinking habits.
The loved ones of alcoholics need to keep in mind the following points:
- Forcing your loved one to quit drinking will only exacerbate the problem.
- If your loved one decides to quit drinking without help, they may not be successful in that feat. In order for individuals to be successful in overcoming a drinking problem, they need to check into a treatment center.
- Recovery is an ongoing process, and maintaining sobriety is a life-long journey. It does not just end when the individual is discharged. It will take time and patience for the individual to maintain their sobriety.
