Alcoholism

What Is Alcohol And Alcoholism Alcohol is a drink such as beer, wine and spirits Alcoholism is a word used when someone has a problem with alcohol People who have a problem with alcohol are called “Alcoholics”

Drinking Alcohol vs. Alcoholism Just because you drink alcohol doesn’t mean you’re an alcoholic However, even drinking small amounts of alcohol may be very serious depending on the circumstances, like drinking and driving or drinking when your pregnant The main thing is to make sure that when it comes to alcohol you are legally old enough (21yrs old) and drink responsibly.

The Facts About Alcohol Approximately 113 million Americans age 12 and over currently use alcohol. 75% of the population believes that alcohol creates the most problems in our society. Alcoholics who won’t stop drinking can shorten their life expectancy by 10 to 15 years

The Facts About Alcohol Alcohol use is involved in: One half of all murders, accidental deaths, and suicides. Almost half of all fatal automobile accidents One half of all crimes. One third of drowning, boating accidents, and aviation (plane) deaths.

Alcohol is a Gateway Drug Individuals who try alcohol have greater chances of using stronger drugs.

The Effects of Alcohol on the Brain and Body Once consumed alcohol enters the blood stream and enters the brain. It depresses the central nervous system Interferes with reflexes and coordination, reaction time, eyesight, and depth perception Reduces Inhibitions ( affects your judgment)

The Effects of Alcohol on the Brain and Body Slow blood circulation Weaken bones and muscles Decrease you bodies immunity (Cause you to become sick more often)

Diseases Caused by Alcoholism (Long Term Effects) Liver disease Chronic gastritis (stomach problems) Ulcers (sores in the stomach) Cancer of the digestive tract Kidney damage Brain disorders (depression, memory, judgment, and learning ability) Damage to unborn (Fetal alcohol syndrome) Malnutrition ( your body becomes unhealthy) Cardiovascular Disease (heart disease)

Pat and Chris’ Story Pat and Chris, like other students learned about the dangers of alcohol in class.

Pat and Chris’s Story Pat didn’t learn to say no, but Chris learned not to give in to peer pressure and TV commercials.

Pat and Chris’s Story Although Pat did not appear to be at risk of becoming an alcoholic, he gave up playing ball with everyone else so he could drink.

Pat and Chris’s Story After a short time Pat’s teacher noticed a change and referred Pat to the Student Assistance Program.

Pat and Chris’s Story Pat was referred to a counselor who decided that inpatient treatment wasn’t necessary, but Pat had to attend outpatient treatment everyday after school.

Pat and Chris’s Story After several weeks Pat was finally released form treatment, and began an after care program.