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Millions of people worldwide are drinking alcohol to an excessive degree; and the situation is getting progressively worse. Alcohol has been used as a psychoactive drug for hundreds of years, and today, it remains the worlds most popular and commonly used mood-altering substance. One possible reason for the prominence of alcohol is its acceptability. Apart from the fact that it is legal, it is widely encouraged in many social settings.
Alcohol is now the third leading cause of disease and injury in developed countries, causing nearly 10% of all ill health and premature deaths in Europe, ahead of diabetes and obesity, and second only to high blood pressure and smoking. Unfortunately, most alcohol abusers smoke, have high blood pressure and are often overweight and many have diabetes.
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Alcohol Addiction and Binge Drinking
Alcohol abuse in the UK has become a serious problem, with one of the largest number of alcohol consumptions per head compared to most other countries worldwide. National statistics report that alcohol related deaths have more than doubled since 1991.
Alcohol addiction sufferers are often aware that they have a problem but are unwilling to seek the necessary help. They believe they are in "control" of their drinking and become very defensive if questioned about it. They often display similar signs and symptoms to that of someone who is alcohol dependent; however, they do not necessarily experience physical withdrawals from alcohol when stopping. |
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Binge drinking involves the consumption of large quantities of alcohol over a short period of time, with the user then having periods of abstinence, ranging from a few days or longer. It has now become a serious problem within the UK, primarily among young people between the ages of 16-24. Consequences can include an increase in violent behaviour, risk-taking, unsafe sex and accidental death. Studies have also shown a direct link between binge drinking and cardiovascular disease. |
Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol dependency is a disease which results in the individual losing control over their behaviour around alcohol and the amount they consume. A misconception is that an alcoholic awakes in the morning with the need to consume at least a bottle of spirits this is a myth. Many alcoholics do not drink vast quantities, but their behaviour surrounding alcohol will nevertheless be the same. Alcoholics often have a strong urge to drink; a compulsion which they are unable to control, regardless of the severe physical and psychological consequences related to it. 
The Causes of Alcohol Addiction
Alcoholism usually occurs over a gradual period of time as the alcohol causes a chemical imbalance within the brain. Alcohol raises dopamine levels which are associated with the enjoyment of drinking; excessive or long-term alcohol abuse can deplete dopamine levels, causing the body to crave alcohol in order to sustain the initial good feeling, or avoid negative feelings.
Other possible factors which can lead to alcohol addiction are:
- Psychological and Emotional Well-being
Stress and anxiety can result in some people drinking excessively in order to eliminate negative or unmanageable circumstances. Depression is often a contributing factor, although it is often seen as a vicious circle in that the individual will drink in order to block out the feelings of depression, but then feel depressed once the effects have worn off.
- Genetics
Although debateable, certain genetic factors can result in a predisposition to alcoholism or other addictive disorders. Have a look at your family history; are you aware of a relative who has suffered with alcoholism, depression or another addictive process?
Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism
Common signs of alcoholism are usually apparent by poor or declining health, unmanageability in life, including problems at home, relationships, work and financial hardships. These are just a few examples of the effects that alcoholism can have on an individual's life, and may not necessarily affect everyone. |
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Other signs can include:
Behavioural Signs:
- Mood swings - the individual may appear passive and withdrawn one moment, but hostile and aggressive the next.
- Secretiveness - alcoholics prefer to drink alone or in secret; it is not a social activity for them. They will usually hide alcohol in unlikely places within the home, car, or at work.
- Withdrawal from daily life i.e. increased absences from work, an inability to commit to everyday tasks, excessive tardiness and deterioration in self-discipline.
- Establishing ritual times for drinking or centring activities around it.
- Manipulation - alcoholics very often manipulate situations, making excuses for their irrational behaviour. They will often make others feel responsible for their actions, which in turn will ultimately result in them bearing the consequences of the individual's unreasonable behaviour.
Physiological Symptoms:
- Abnormal movements such as tremor of the hands and involuntary movement of the eyelids.
- Irritability, anxiety and depression.
- Loss of appetite.
- Bloodshot eyes.
- Blotchy skin and broken blood vessels near the surface of the skin.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Increased blackouts - not remembering what they did or said when they were drinking.
- Insomnia - difficulty sleeping.
- Sweating - especially of the hands and face.
What are the Effects of Alcohol Addiction?
Short-term alcohol abuse can lead to poor general health, weight gain, alchohol poisoning, reduced libido, and causing a greater risk of injury to yourself and/or others.
Long-term alcohol consumption can severely increase the individual's risk of developing numerous diseases such as pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, diabetes, certain cancers, reduced fertility, mental health problems and heart failure, and even death.
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For further information regarding drug and alcohol addiction programmes, please feel free to contact one of our First4Rehab advisors, either by phone or email. Or if you prefer, drop us a text on the mobile number listed below.
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