Alcohol is a drug though many people would not consider it as such and can cause both physical and emotional dependence. Alcohol consumption is widely accepted globally, glorified in movies and used at many occasions. It is the number one drug problem in the US with over more than 12 million alcoholics. $197 million dollars are spent daily on alcohol in the US alone.
How Alcohol Abuse Affects Others
Alcohol abuse affects not only the person who abuses it, but the lives of those around them. Every 30 minutes a person is killed in an alcohol-related car accident. Alcohol use plays a big factor in felony cases, child beating cases, rape cases, wife battering cases, homicides and stabbings. Family members are also severely impacted emotionally and / or physically by a parent or spouse or someone else in the family who abuses alcohol.
Economically it cost the US over 200 billion a year in alcohol misuse problems.
Quitting Drinking Alcohol for Good
Effects of Using Alcohol
When you are drunk, your behavior changes. Your mind starts swinging and you loose your balance. You can’t concentrate or focus and your words will more than likely have no meaning.
When alcohol is consumed, it causes dizziness, relaxation, sleep, uncontrolled behavior, uncontrolled perceptions and poor judgement. Lack of consciousness can result in poor decisions causing a person to do what he or she normally wouldn’t do. The person can become hostile and assault someone.
Some people may have no recollection of what they did or what happened after waking up from drinking alcohol. When the blood-alcohol level returns to zero, the user will often experience a hangover. This will sometimes involve a combination of effects including upset stomach, headache, nausea, fatigue, food aversion, thirst and diarrhea.
Health Effects of Abusing Alcohol
Alcohol abuse can cause heart failure, kidney failure, chronic pancreatitis, brain damage, sleep disruptions and cirrhosis of the liver. Drinking alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the liver, mouth, esophagus, pharynx and breast. Read about alcohol shakes and tremors.
Signs and Symptoms Leading to Alcoholism
- When alcohol use hinders work or school and other activities.
- Drinking even when a physical condition can be made worse.
- Drinking even when he or she knows they have to drive.
- When blackouts or memory loss occurs.
- Accidents occur when drinking.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
- Drinking uncontrollably.
- Always relying on alcohol to relieve stress.
- Drinking in the morning, staying drunk or drinking alone.
- Hiding their drinking or making excuses for drinking.
- Withdrawal symptoms from not drinking.
- Putting drinking over hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed.
- Drinking even though education, career, family and relationships are jeopardized.
- Making sure there is always enough alcohol or that social events include alcohol.
Helping Someone with Alcohol Addiction
People who abuse alcohol or drugs will usually deny that they have a problem and refuse help. If you suspect a loved one is abusing alcohol, reach out to them and get them some help. An intervention may be needed and can save a person’s life. Speak with a drug and alcohol rehabilitation specialist today to see how you can help your loved one get his or her life back or to find out more about the Narconon Fresh Start drug and alcohol rehab program by calling 1-855-734-2223.