Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse

Alcoholism Also known as alcohol dependence Occurs when a person show signs of physical addiction. When one continues to drink despite problems with their physical and mental health, social life, family or job. Alcohol may dominate the person’s life and relationships.

Alcohol Abuse When a person’s drinking leads to problems, but not physical addiction.

Risk Factors Those at risk for developing alcoholism include: Men who have 15 or more drinks a week Women who have 12 or more drinks a week Anyone who has five or more drinks per occasions at least once a week.

Other risk factors People who: Have an alcoholic parent Are under peer pressure Have easy access to alcohol Have low self-esteem or problems with relationships Live a stressful lifestyle Live in a culture where there is a high social acceptance of alcohol use.

The research says… Certain genes may increase the risk of alcoholism The prevalence of problem drinking is rising. 15% of people in the USA are problem drinkers 5-10% of male drinkers and 3- 5% of female drinkers could be diagnosed as alcohol dependent.

Signs of physical dependence Alcohol-related illnesses A need for increasing amounts of alcohol to get drunk or achieve the desired effect. Memory lapses (blackouts) after heavy drinking. Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is stopped.

Symptoms and behaviors of alcoholism Continuing to drink, even when health, work, or family are being harmed. Drinking alone Episodes of violence when drinking Hostility when confronted about drinking Lack of control over drinking Making excuses to drink

cont… Missing work or school, or a decrease in performance No longer taking part in activities because of alcohol Need for daily or regular alcohol to function Neglecting to eat Not caring for physical appearance Secretive behavior or hiding alcohol

Signs and Tests The following questions are used by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to screen for abuse: Do you ever drive when you have been drinking? Do you have to drink more than before to get drunk or feel the desired effect? Have you felt that you should cut down on your drinking? Have you ever had any blackouts? Have you ever missed work or lost a job because of drinking? Is someone in your family worried about your drinking?

Treatment Some problem drinkers may simply be able to reduce the amount they drink (moderate) If this is not successful, abstinence may be necessary. However, completely stopping intake and remaining abstinent is difficult for many alcoholics.

Intervention Many alcoholics don’t realize they have a problem. Compassion and empathy are now seen as more effective ways of helping as opposed to confrontation. Ideally, help people realize how much the alcoholism is harming their life and those around them.

Withdrawal Typically occurs within 5-10 hours of last drink, but may occur later. The more heavy the drinker, the more likely they are to experience withdrawal.

Psychological symptoms of withdrawal Anxiety or nervousness Depression Difficulty thinking clearly Fatigue Irritability Shakiness/Jumpiness Nightmares Hallucinations

Physical Conditions of withdrawal Clammy skin Enlarged pupils Headache Insomnia Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Rapid heart rate Sweating Tremors Fever Seizures

Long-Term Recovery After detox, rehabilitation programs can help people stay away from alcohol Counseling, mental health support, nursing, and medical care. Sometimes medications is prescribed to prevent relapses. Disulfram – produces very unpleasant side effects if you drink event a small amount of alcohol Naltrexone – decreases alcohol cravings.

Support Groups Such as Alcoholics Anonymous provide emotional support for those recovering. Members of AA: Are given a model of recovery by seeing the accomplishments of sober members. Have help available 24 hours a day. Learn that it is possible to participate in social functions without drinking.

Expectations Only 15% of people who are dependent seek treatment. Relapse is very common. Treatment programs have varying rates of success. Total abstinence provides the best opportunity for success.

Conclusion 75-85% of Canadian adults had a drink in the last year. Most are not alcoholics, but some are. As you move into an age where drinking not only becomes socially acceptable, but legal, consider whether or not you have the potential to become a problem drinker, or an alcoholic.