Alcoholism
What is Alcoholism
- Details
- Parent Category: Rehab
- Category: Alcoholism
- Written by Stop Admin
Alcoholism, which is also known as alcohol dependence syndrome, is a condition that is characterized by the following elements: A strong need, or compulsion, to drink. Loss of control: The frequent inability to stop drinking once a person has begun. The occurrence of withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety, when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking comes from a physical dependence. These symptoms are usually relieved by drinking alcohol or by taking another sedative drug.
Alcoholism has little to do with what kind of alcohol one drinks, how long one has been drinking, or even exactly how much alcohol one consumes. But it has a great deal to do with a person's uncontrollable need for alcohol. While some people are able to recover without help, the majority of alcoholic individuals need outside assistance to recover from their disease. With support and treatment, many individuals are able to stop drinking and rebuild their lives. It is important to recognize that aspects of a person's environment, such as peer influences and the availability of alcohol, also are significant influences. Both inherited and environmental influences are called risk factors. But risk is not destiny.
Whatever the case, people asking themselves what is alcoholism can find the answer by taking a close look at themselves or someone they care about, and see if they notice signs of being unable to stop when alcohol has caused considerable damage to the person’s life.