Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcoholism is also called as Alcohol Addiction. It is an ailment that affects people of all age groups. Scientists have been trying to pinpoint the cause of alcoholism on genes, sex, race, social or economic status but none of the single cause is associated. The contribution to alcoholism can be of genetic, psychological, and behavioral factors. Alcoholism is a real disease that causes changes in the brain and neural chemistry.  Alcoholism varies from person to person, the amount consumed, the severity of the ailment, etc. 

One who is addicted to alcohol should withdraw consumption of alcohol by consulting a psychologist and a Primary care doctor.

What are the signs and symptoms of alcoholism?

Alcohol can be easily accessible and part of many cultures. So, recognizing the addiction to alcohol is difficult than heroin or cocaine addiction. Some of the symptoms and signs are:

1. Increased frequency/quantity of drinking alcohol
2. Lack of hangover or increased tolerance
3. Inappropriate drinking hours such as in the morning, or at work, etc
4. Change in friendships, making friends who are also heavy drinkers
5. Contact with loved ones is inhibited
6. Hiding while drinking 
7. Dependency on alcohol to function everyday work
8. Increase in emotional issue, lethargy, or depression

What are the complications associated with alcohol addiction?

The complications associated with alcohol addiction are:

1. Fatal liver and heart problems
2. Decreased immunity
3. Increased risk of cancer
4. Bone loss
5. Visual problems
6. Birth defects
7. Sexual problems
8. Ulcers
9. Diabetes-related complications
10. Increased risk of suicide and homicide

What kind of treatments are used for Alcohol Deaddiction?

Treating alcohol addiction is a lifetime commitment it can't be quickly fixed and or cured completely as it involves daily care. Following are the ways in which alcohol addiction can be treated - 

1. Rehabilitation center
2. Al-Anon (Alcohol Anonymous) other support groups
3. Drug therapy
4. Counseling
5. Changes in nutritional intake

What are the resources to treat alcohol addiction are?

1. NCADD - National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
2. NIAAA - National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
3. National Institute and Drug Abuse
4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
5. DrugFree.org

What is the takeaway of alcohol addiction?

1. Individuals suffering from alcohol addiction cab be benefitted from joining programs like Alcohol Anonymous and other support groups as well.
2. Relapse of alcohol consumption may occur but that doesn’t mean failure in the treatment. The individual can get back on track and resume the treatment. 
3. The person who is addicted to alcohol has the responsibility of being sober and improving the quality of life.