Alcohol

Alcohol comes in many forms, usually it’s consumed as Wine, Beer and Hard Liquor.  It’s important to realize that not everyone who drinks alcohol is an alcoholic.  Because alcohol is legal and widely accepted in society, it can be hard to tell the difference between casual use and abuse (or alcohol use disorder).

In general, use of alcohol that results in negative consequences is considered abuse, these use include:

• Physical harm or illness
• Strained relationships
• Problems at work
• Financial difficulty

When this type of use becomes more frequent, it may escalate into an addiction. Those with a severe alcohol use disorder may feel that they can’t start or end their day without drinking alcohol. 

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is marked by a craving for alcohol and the inability to stop drinking; even when it causes extreme personal or social harm. Signs of alcohol addiction include:

• Frequently drinking more than intended
• Wanting to stop drinking but being unable to
• Developing a tolerance to alcohol
• Feeling symptoms of withdrawal when stopping
• Neglecting personal and professional responsibilities
• Hiding alcohol from friends and families

Alcohol is often abused with other drugs; alcohol on its own can be dangerous, but combining it with other substances can prove lethal.  Misuse or dependency can have many adverse effects on the body, long term use can cause liver & kidney problems as well as pancreatitis. It also weakens the immune system and puts people at greater risk of diseases and some cancers.

More Info:

cdc.gov

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