What is Alcoholism?
What is Alcoholism?
Before we begin the discussion of What is Alcoholism?, we need to understand the nature of the disease. In 1956, the American Medical Association recognized alcoholism as a medical illness. Alcoholism is a disease that affects the brain structure, altering the motivation and the ability to make healthy choices. It is often difficult to break free from this destructive habit without the help of a professional. However, there are treatments available.
Symptoms
If you've been struggling with alcoholism, you've probably experienced some of the common symptoms. Eventually, alcohol use disorder can lead to physical dependence and even liver disease. Although alcoholism symptoms may be frightening, they're treatable. To get back on track, you must accept that you need time and help from a professional. This article will help you get started on your journey toward recovery. Read on to learn more about the most common alcoholism symptoms and how to deal with them.
One of the most obvious alcoholism symptoms is the presence of cirrhosis, a disease that develops after years of continuous alcohol abuse. Alcohol consumption causes scar tissue in the liver, impairing the liver's ability to process nutrients and absorb cholesterol. Additionally, alcohol consumption can impair balance and coordination. It's not uncommon for someone with alcohol abuse to have trouble walking or balancing. Alcohol abuse can also affect their relationships.
Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be extremely painful and often fatal. Alcoholism also compromises the immune system, making it difficult to carry out everyday tasks, like work or play. Fortunately, alcohol use disorders can be managed with medication or therapy, which helps the body acclimate to life without alcohol. However, 40-60% of alcoholism sufferers relapse after stopping drinking. During this time, these symptoms can last for up to a year.
Treatment options
There are many alcoholism treatment options. One of the most common is outpatient treatment, which allows patients to continue their recovery without the need for medical detox. These programs often offer group and private counseling sessions multiple times a week. Clients will also continue to be involved with 12-step programs and recreation. Intensive outpatient programs, which do not require medical detox, are also available. In-patient programs are more intensive than outpatient treatment but still allow patients to enjoy their daily life.
While many people who are suffering from alcoholism can complete detox successfully, some may find it difficult to stay sober. In these cases, counseling and medical interventions may be necessary. Support groups can be helpful as well. Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of people with alcohol problems. These groups are non-professional, multiracial, and non-political, and are available almost anywhere. There is no age limit for participation in such groups, and they are open to anyone with a desire to stop drinking.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is also a viable treatment option for alcoholism. Unlike general talk therapy, this form of therapy focuses on changing the way a person thinks, replacing negative patterns with positive ones. This type of therapy is highly effective for people with low self-esteem, traumatic experiences, or peer pressure. In fact, more than 80% of people with alcohol use disorders have undergone some form of cognitive behavioral therapy.
Common misconceptions
Many people believe that alcohol abuse is not as serious as other types of addiction. This belief is not true. Alcohol abuse can have devastating effects, including increased risk of accidents, injuries, violence, and even death. It also increases the risk of depression, anxiety, memory loss, and certain types of cancer. In addition, people with certain genetic characteristics are more likely to develop alcoholism. Fortunately, there are ways to help people who are suffering from alcohol abuse and find relief from their problems.
First of all, alcoholism is not a choice. While most people assume that alcoholism is an individual choice, this is not the case. Anyone can stop drinking whenever they want. No one ever started drinking with the intention of ruining their lives. Instead, people become addicted to alcohol based on their own unique genetic makeup and experience. This means that the causes of alcoholism are not well understood. Ultimately, the disease is an emotional response to a substance.
There are several common misconceptions about alcoholism. Many people believe that an alcoholic is someone who drinks all the time, every day. But the reality is much different. Some people who have a drinking problem might drink only on weekends, and others may go weeks without drinking at all. And there are people who drink to the point of deep intoxication but may have no obvious symptoms. Many high achievers hide their drinking habits to avoid being stigmatized.