Alcohol Addiction

Table of Contents

As the world progresses, so does the number of individuals struggling with alcoholism.  In 2022, it is estimated that the global prevalence of alcoholism will be about 7.6%.  This means that approximately 1 in every 13 people worldwide will be affected by this disease.  Alcoholism statistics also show that males are more likely to suffer from alcoholism than females, and that the highest rate of occurrence is among adults aged 30-44 years old.

 

One thing is certain – alcohol abuse and addiction is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, please get help as soon as possible. There are many resources available to those who need it, and recovery is possible

Drunk guy laying down

What Is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction is a serious and progressive disease that is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol and continued use despite harmful consequences. It can lead to physical and mental health problems, damage relationships, and affect work or school performance. People with alcohol addiction may have trouble stopping even when they want to, and may need help from a medical professional to get started on the road to recovery.

 

Alcoholism is a serious problem that affects people of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds.  It is a serious and progressive disease that is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol and continued use despite harmful consequences. Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that can destroy lives and tear families apart. It’s a complex disease that affects both the mind and the body, and it’s not always easy to spot.  There are many different factors that can contribute to alcohol addiction, and it’s often a combination of several factors that leads to addiction.  People with alcohol addiction may have trouble stopping even when they want to, and may need help from a medical professional to get started on the road to recovery.  The upside is that this is reversible, you can get better and get your life back together.

What Causes Alcohol Addiction?

Many people frown upon alcoholism and the people affected by it, let’s learn a few key points on what causes it.  Some question if it is a choice? A disease? A genetic predisposition? The answer, according to most experts, is a little bit of all three.  Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, is a broad term for any drinking of alcohol that results in problems. It can affect your health, your work, your relationships, and your overall well being.

 

There are many different factors that can contribute to alcoholism. It’s important to remember that not everyone who drinks will become an alcoholic. And there is no one “cause” of alcoholism. It’s a complex disease that is influenced by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of alcoholism include:

 

  • Genetic factors: If you have a family history of alcoholism, you’re more likely to develop the disease. This is because alcoholism can be passed down through families.

 

  • Psychological factors: If you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders, you may be more likely to turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate.

 

  • Social factors: If you have friends or family members who drink excessively, you may be more likely to develop alcoholism yourself. This is because drinking is often seen as a social norm.

 

  • Environmental factors: If you’re exposed to alcohol at an early age, you’re more likely to develop a problem with it later in life. This is because early exposure can lead to a greater likelihood of developing an addiction.
Bottels of Alcohol to present Addiction
guy laying on bar drunk

Symptoms Of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a progressive, chronic disease characterized by symptoms including loss of control over alcohol consumption, preoccupation with drinking, continued use of alcohol despite negative consequences, and deterioration of physical and mental health. People with alcoholism may also experience financial, legal, social, and relationship problems.  The below is a compiled list of symptoms of Alcoholism

  • Loss of control over alcohol consumption: This means that people with alcoholism are not able to control how much they drink, and they may often drink more than they intended. They may also drink more often than they intended, and they may feel like they need to drink in order to feel normal.
  • Preoccupation with drinking: This means that people with alcoholism often think about drinking, and they may plan their day around drinking. They may also think about drinking when they are not drinking, and they may feel guilty or ashamed about their drinking.
  • Continued use of alcohol despite negative consequences: This means that people with alcoholism continue to drink even though it is causing problems in their life. They may lose their job, their friends, or their family because of their drinking.
  • Deterioration of physical and mental health: This means that people with alcoholism may experience health problems because of their drinking. They may have liver damage, heart problems, or brain damage. They may also have problems with depression, anxiety, or memory.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help. Alcohol Addiction is a disease, and it is important to get help if you or someone you know is struggling with it.

Types Of Alcoholism

When looking at the statistics of alcoholism, it is important to consider the different types of alcohol use disorders. There are three main types of alcohol use disorders: alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, and binge drinking.

The most important thing to remember is that alcohol addiction is a disease, and it’s one that requires treatment. If you think you or someone you know may be struggling with addiction, it’s important to reach out for help.

  • Alcohol abuse is characterized by a pattern of drinking that results in one or more of the following problems:3
    • Drinking in situations that are dangerous, such as while driving
    • Having legal problems due to drinking, such as getting arrested for drunk driving
    • Continuing to drink even though it is causing problems in relationships
  • Alcohol dependence is a more severe form of alcohol abuse. People who are dependent on alcohol have a strong need or craving for alcohol. They may feel that they cannot function without it. People who are dependent on alcohol may also
    • Feel that they need to drink more and more to feel the effects
    • Have withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking, such as shaking, sweating, or nausea
    • Be unable to control how much they drink
  • Binge drinking is a type of alcohol use disorder that is characterized by episodes of heavy drinking.  People who binge drink may:
    • Drink large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time
    • Drink to the point of being drunk
    • Engage in risky behaviors while drunk
guy drinking wine representing addiction

Treatment For Alcohol Addiction

There are many different types of treatment for alcohol addiction, and the most effective approach will vary from person to person. However, there are some common elements that are often included in successful treatment programs. These include management of withdrawal symptoms, detoxification, counseling and therapy, and support groups.  Withdrawal symptoms can be very unpleasant and even dangerous, so it is important to seek professional help when quitting alcohol. Detoxification usually takes place in a hospital or rehabilitation center, where patients are closely monitored and supported through the process. Counseling and therapy can help patients understand their addiction and develop coping strategies for dealing with triggers and urges. Support groups provide a sense of community and can be an important source of motivation and accountability.

 

It’s no secret that alcohol addiction is a serious problem. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, more than 15 million adults in the United States suffer from alcohol use disorder. And yet, despite its prevalence, alcohol addiction is often misunderstood.  There are a variety of treatment options available for alcohol addiction, but not all of them are effective.  One of the most common treatments for alcohol addiction is behavioral therapy.  This type of therapy usually takes place in an outpatient setting, and it focuses on helping the person with alcohol addiction change their behavior.  Behavioral therapy can be done in individual or group sessions. It often includes education about the dangers of alcohol, help in developing coping skills, and support in making changes to drinking habits.

 

Another very well known treatment for Alcoholism is the 12-Step Program.  It is a well-known and widely used approach to treating alcoholism. The program is based on the belief that alcoholism is a disease that can be treated by following a set of twelve steps. The twelve steps are designed to help people recover from alcoholism by providing a structure for recovery and a community of support. Each step is intricate and necessary before taking the next step.  

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there is definitely help if you are willing to try.  If you or a loved one are currently struggling with Alcoholism / Alcohol Addiction, it is important to look for treatment as soon as possible.  The effects of this disease can be fatal, not only for the abuser, but to the possible innocent samaritans around them.  Inpatient Rehabilitation for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services are available at Embrace Treatment Center.  As well as providing the necessary care, we provide activities to keep clients engaged and motivated.  As Embrace Treatment Center’s clients begin their journey to recovery, our team of specialists ensures they have the support and resources they need.  Click HERE to learn more about how to get help for yourself or your loved one.  There are so many resources that can make searching for help overwhelming, let us help you begin your recovery journey.