1. The Other side of drinking …

2.  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.

3.  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.

4.  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.

5.  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.