Alcoholism

 

The term ‘alcoholism’ covers a wide range of problems associated with alcohol.  In general it is considered to be the compulsive and uncontrolled consumption of alcohol.  This is usually accompanied by a deterioration in the drinker’s health, social standing and personal relationships.

Alcoholism is more than an indulgence in alcohol it is a disorder.  As with addictions to other substances, drinking alcohol becomes a problem when it has adverse effects on your life and your health.  Being an alcoholic is quite different from having an occasional drink or occasionally getting drunk it is a distinct condition which, fortunately, is becoming better understood and treatable. 

When drinking takes a hold of your life and you recognise that you need help your first port of call for help is usually your GP.  Your doctor can advise you of all the help and treatment that is available to you and set you on your path to recovery.

Denial and seeking help

Many alcoholics remain in denial for a long time, feeling that they could never ‘kick’ the habit but many have conquered this disorder and there are several different courses of action open for recovery. 

For some it is the shame of admitting that they have a problem which prevents them from seeking help.  If you feel that you are ready to take the first steps to sobriety but do not feel able to confide in your doctor there are many helplines which are dedicated to your recovery.  There are organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous who will treat you with respect and dignity and have many years of experience to aid you.

The longer that alcohol remains a problem the more your health is likely to deteriorate along with your relationships with loved ones.  You may fear a sober life as it could be a long time since you experienced life as a sober person, but most recovered alcoholics find that their quality of life and their happiness levels are greatly enriched once they put down the bottle.

Diagnosis and treatment

Your GP can help diagnose your condition and provide access or signpost the treatment that you require to overcome alcoholism.  They can also run the tests which you may need to ensure that your physical health has not been adversely affected by the consumption of alcohol and, if necessary, provide any treatment which you may require to put damage right.

Remember that knowledge is power, so arm yourself with all the information you can and decide which course of action is the best for you.  Also remember that whichever route you take it is imperative that you do choose the path to becoming sober as alcoholism can be a fatal illness.

The first steps you take will be the hardest but they will lead you to the road of recovery and a healthier, happier life.  The sooner you make them the sooner you will regain your self-worth and the life which you deserve. Please see our array of alcohol guides and features below for more helpful information on the condition.

Related Guides

Get help now
What is addiction? Signs, symptoms and treatment information
One man's struggle with alcoholism
What is alcoholism and how is it different to other drinking?
A help guide for those living with or caring for an alcoholic
Health and mental health risks relating to alcohol
Treatment for alcoholism explained
Changing your thinking, changing your life
A guide to mental illness
Dual diagnosis
Here we look at the effects of some popular herbs for anxiety
Comprehensive mental health statistics
Tom Huber tells his story
A guide to finding the right mental health help for you
Online help available 24 hours a day
Can you really get the quality of care and help you need on the Internet?
Tips to help you cut down alcohol and overcome dependence
From addiction and prostitution to inspiration

Related News

A statement from the Winehouse family says that there were no illegal substances in Amy's system.
New study sheds light on why people do daft things when they are drunk
Two key areas identified as being responsible for the successful recovery from addiction
Increased risk for alcohol disorders among women
Children who have a parent with a drink problem are at risk of drinking when in a stressful situation
More than a third of blind and visually-impaired people could also suffer from depression
The mental health of sportsmen is in the spotlight again as Ricky Hatton speaks out about his depression
Oxford's recovery community raise awareness about recovery and services
New feedback facility for service users to report difficulties in accessing residential rehabilitation
Sarah Harding from Girls Aloud enters rehab after splitting from her fiance and hitting rock bottom
Syndicate content