Alcohol Awareness

QUESTION: What disease . . .
a. is a physical and psychological dependence for which there is no cure?
b. causes chronic safety and social problems, disease and death?
c. begins as socially acceptable behavior?

Why some people can drink alcohol without ill effects and others drink and develop alcoholism remains a medical mystery. Medical experts now estimate that chronic alcoholics represent 3-5% of the U.S. population, or 6-8 million adults.

The direct cause of alcoholism is not clear, but heredity, brain chemistry and lifestyle
are all factors.

What should be understood about alcoholism is that it is not a character or moral weakness. It is an addictive disease causing physical and psychological dependence on a chemical - alcohol. Alcohol becomes part of the patient’s body chemistry which then takes control of their behavior and thinking.

Symptoms of alcoholism include drinking heavily every day, often secretly, as the need for alcohol increases. Alcoholics withdraw from other interests and people so that they can drink more. While they may struggle to control their drinking with periods of abstinence, the urge to drink ultimately becomes too strong to control. They feel guilty, "stash" alcohol, experience blackouts, and have repeated problems at home, on the job or with the law.

To the body, alcohol is a poison that destroys cells. Repeated heavy drinking over a long period of time can eventually damage the brain, liver, heart and stomach; increase cancer risk; and interfere with the immune system and absorption of nutrients. Alcoholism is a deadly disease that takes enormous courage to fight.

If you see yourself or someone you love in this profile, talk to your health care provider and contact the following groups for help.

Resources
o Alcoholics Anonymous: check local directories or www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.
o National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information: 800-729-6686, www.health.org
o National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: www.niaaa.nih.gov (check "Frequently Asked Questions")

SOURCE: Personal Best Publications