The Other side of drinking …

 Alcoholism is a progressive disease, in which symptoms only become worse over time. Alcoholism is often described as alcohol dependence syndrome, drinking patterns can include binge drinking and more commonly continual alcohol abuse.

 After frequent intoxication, some key symptoms include:  drastic change in demeanor,  repeatedly neglecting responsibilities; with work and family life and  experiencing legal problems because of alcohol consumption.

 As alcohol consumption has become such an integral part of the Australian culture, it is difficult to know when a friend or family member is suffering from alcoholism.  Councilor Phillip Milligan of the Mornington Peninsula notes that when the current lifestyle no longer fits the physical, social or family demands, there is a crisis: when admission to the problem is of more benefit/necessity than denial then we know we have a problem.

 Quite often, it depends on the drinker and if they are willing to question their current lifestyle.  Experts across the country believe that the first thing to do is consult your local GP, who can then refer you onto other medical institution.  There are also Alcohol Anonymous groups who meet in most regional towns.