Alcohol Addiction and Alcoholism
For many people, the facts about alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction are not clear. What is alcohol abuse, exactly? How does it differ from alcoholism (i.e., alcohol addiction)? When should a person seek help for a problem related to his or her drinking? The following information explains both alcohol abuse and alcoholism, the symptoms of each, when and where to seek help, alcohol treatment choices, and additional helpful alcoholism resources.
Alcohol Dependence, Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse: A Widespread ProblemFor most people who drink, alcohol is a pleasant accompaniment to social activities. Moderate alcohol use-up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people-is not harmful for most adults. (A standard drink is one 12-ounce bottle or can of either beer or wine cooler, one 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.) Nonetheless, a large number of people get into serious trouble because of their drinking. Currently, nearly 14 million Americans-1 in every 13 adults-abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. Several million more adults engage in risky drinking that could lead to alcohol problems. These patterns include binge drinking and heavy drinking on a regular basis. In addition, 53 percent of men and women in the United States report that one or more of their close relatives have a drinking problem.
The consequences of alcohol abuse are serious-in many cases, life threatening. Heavy drinking can increase the risk for certain cancers, especially those of the liver, esophagus, throat, and larynx (voice box). Heavy drinking can also cause liver cirrhosis, immune system problems, brain damage, and harm to the fetus during pregnancy. In addition, drinking increases the risk of death from automobile crashes as well as recreational and on-the-job injuries. Furthermore, both homicides and suicides are more likely to be committed by persons who have been drinking. In purely economic terms, alcohol-related problems cost society approximately $185 billion per year. In human terms, the costs cannot be calculated.
If you require assistance in locating an effective alcohol rehab call the national alcohol treatment helpline at 1-800-511-9225 or go to www.lakeviewhealth.com.
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