Alcohol Dependence

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Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, is an uncontrollable desire for alcohol that overrides an individual's ability to stop drinking. Alcohol abuse is present when the use of alcohol interferes with physical, social or economic functioning. Many people who are not alcoholics cannot understand why the sufferer doesn't just use a bit of willpower to give up, however willpower has little to do with the addiction; the need can be as strong as the need for food or water.

Drinking in moderation does not indicate a dependence on alcohol, however it is when consumption exceeds a certain level that effects of alcohol dependence can be severe. Government guidelines state that men should drink no more than three to four units per day and women should drink no more than two to three units per day. Yet some medical experts believe these guidelines are even too high and suggest men drink no more than three units per day, and women no more than two units. Units should not be saved and used to binge at the weekend, which has become a growing trend in the UK in recent years. One unit is equal to a half pint of average strength beer (4%), a 25ml measure of spirit or a small glass (125ml) of 8% ABV wine. The more these limits are exceeded, the greater the risk of developing serious problems such as liver disease.

In the short term, alcohol suppresses the part of the brain that controls judgement, which results in a loss of inhibitions. It also causes blurred vision, slurred speech and a loss of balance. Binge drinking can lead to unconsciousness, coma and even death. Long term effects will often cause physical damage, make some diseases worse and increase the risk of developing other diseases.

Excess alcohol can lead to many health problems, including heart failure, liver cirrhosis, damage to the brain and nervous system, depression and anxiety. Whether alcohol leads to or causes depression and anxiety is still unclear. However, each can reinforce the other. Adequate help needs to be given to the mental health needs of an individual with alcohol dependence, or little progress will be made. Damage to relationships, finances and jobs and all common consequences of alcohol dependence. Alcohol dependence is not only present in adults; a significant number of adolescents and young adults are also affected. It is estimated that a quarter of men and one in six women in Britain drink enough to put their health at risk.

Symptoms:

A strong urge to drink

Loss of control

Difficulty controlling drinking

A growing tolerance to alcohol

Neglect of other activities

Persistent drinking even though it is causing harm

Loss of concentration

Memory blackouts

Mood changes

Physical withdrawal symptoms:

Sweating

Shaking

Nausea

Anxiety

Causes:

The cause of alcohol dependence is likely to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors; alcohol dependence clusters in some families, however it is difficult to know whether this is not due to learned behaviour. Environmental factors such as family, friends, peer pressure, culture and how easy it is to get hold of alcohol all influence the likelihood of an individual becoming alcohol dependent.

Treatment:

Alcohol dependence often remains undetected for years. However, with treatment and support many individuals are able to stop drinking and rebuild their lives. The difficulty of treating alcohol dependence should not be minimised, even with the support of family and friends. A chronic drinker may be prescribed medication to prevent withdrawal symptoms, and vitamin supplements are often essential as sufferers are usually malnourished.

Further Help

Alcoholics Anonymous

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