What is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a disease. The symptoms include strong cravings for alcohol and continuing to drink, despite repeated alcohol-related problems – such as getting suspended from school or getting into trouble with the law.
It includes four symptoms:
- Craving: A strong need to drink.
- Impaired control: The inability to limit or control your drinking on a particular occasion.
- Physical dependence: Withdrawal symptoms – such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety – when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.
- Tolerance: The need for increasing amounts of alcohol in order to feel its effects.
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Below are links PAMF accessed when researching this topic. PAMF does not sponsor or endorse any of these sites, nor does PAMF guarantee the accuracy of the information contained on them.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Alcohol and Drug Rehab for Women - Recovery Connection® (RCx) website is dedicated to helping people or their loved ones in need of help with detox, drug addiction, or alcoholism. Find treatment or call 1-(800)-993-3869.
For More Information:
Got an alcohol problem? Try our quiz.
Visit e-CHUG to challenge your alcohol-related knowledge.