Signs of an Alcoholic
Alcohol is a common element of socializing and special occasions, but there comes a point in which it becomes a problem, physically and emotionally. Many habits can clue you into whether you or someone you care about is an alcoholic, but the most obvious and simple measure is recognizing if alcohol is having a negative impact on one's life.
The Facts
While a professional diagnose alcoholism, certain signs can make it evident to friends and family members when someone they care about is suffering from the disease. 66% of the population consumes alcohol, but over 18% of Americans experience alcohol dependency or abuse at some point of their lives. It is almost three times more likely for a man to be a problem drinker than a woman.
Identification
Many signs can suggest someone is an alcoholic. Having two or more DUIs, habitually ordering beer or wine with food at restaurants, needing to have a drink immediately after getting home from work, keeping the home stocked with alcohol, going to bars alone and the inability to have just one drink may all be signs of alcoholism. While many alcoholics drink every day, people who binge drink on the weekends may also be alcoholics.
Effects
Alcoholism results in negative effects, including blackout episodes where the drinker is unable to recall events, poor nutrition and increased feelings of aggression or depression. Severe alcohol dependence can result in shaking, sweating and nausea when the drinker goes for a long period of time without having a drink. In the long term, alcohol abuse can lead to liver damage, erectile dysfunction and an increased risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.
Significance
The emotional and psychological effects on the alcoholic and his family and friends are the most difficult aspect of the disease. It can be especially difficult on a child when her parent is an alcoholic, as it keeps the parent from fulfilling his responsibilities. When a husband is an alcoholic, there is a greater risk of domestic abuse. Ultimately, if alcoholism is allowed to spiral out of control, it can destroy families, friendships and lives.
Prevention/Solution
Alcoholism is related equally to genetics and environmental causes. For those with a genetic predisposition, it is advisable to avoid alcohol or exercise extreme caution and mindfulness while consuming it. Once someone has succumbed to alcoholism, support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and rehabilitation centers are the most promising methods of recovery.
Related Posts:
Appearance Signs Of An Alcoholic
Warning signs of alcoholism are important indicators showing a trend toward dependency. Alcoholism affects people from all walks of life and can start affecting someone in her teenage years. Not o...
Signs & Symptoms Of An Alcoholic
Alcoholism is a serious social problem that knows no national boundaries. It is estimated that over 75 million people worldwide suffer from some form of alcoholism. Furthermore, almost 2 million d...
Signs You'Re Becoming An Alcoholic
Signs You're Becoming an AlcoholicAccording to the Mayo Clinic, alcoholism is a disease that keeps your body dependent on alcohol. Many people are not aware that alcohol consumption has become a p...
Signs And Symptoms Of A Relapsing Alcoholic
Signs and Symptoms of a Relapsing AlcoholicWhen an alcoholic who has completed rehabilitative treatment suddenly slips off the wagon, it can be a devastating blow to friends, family and the alcoho...
Symptoms Of Alcoholic Behavior
Alcoholism can cause irreparable damage both to the alcoholics themselves and to those close to them. It is estimated that some 76 million people worldwide suffer from alcoholism, and health care...
