The Basics of Alcohol Abuse: Recognizing the Signs
by Paul Johnson

Alcohol consumption is not necessarily a problem. We've all heard that drinking should be done in moderation. And, while many of us are able to control our drinking (whether social or not), others cannot.

In fact, the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence believes that there are nearly 20 million people who are dependent upon alcohol in the United States alone.

The definition of alcoholism is quite specific. It states that if a person feels cravings or urges, has a loss of control over how much they drink, has a physical dependence and/or a high tolerance level, s/he is known as "alcohol dependent".

An alcohol dependent person feels that the need of alcohol in order to cope or operate with day-to-day life.

An alcoholic dependent person has therefore developed the disease of alcoholism. The abovementioned Council agrees that it is a major public health concern, and is something that should be dealt with on a national level. And, like any disease, it can last a person's lifetime, is debilitating, and has the possibility to cause death.

Alcoholism can be cured. Even if damage is done to the liver, it has a strong chance of regenerating and recuperating. With proper treatment, support and will power, many people can stop drinking for good and carry on with their lives.

Some treatments use counseling methods, while others incorporate medication as a part of the regimen for success. Some of these medications are addictive and are not used but only for the first few days.

When dealing with a disease of this nature, some persevere quicker than others. If a person is able to completely abstain from alcohol, then he or she has a greater chance at rebuilding his or her life-which is the best goal to keep in mind during the struggle.

~June 2005

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