The earliest historical record of alcohol is from 6600 BCE in China. Since then alcohol has become deeply ingrained throughout much of the world’s cultures. Used for celebrations and socializations, it is one of the most widely used and socially accepted drugs on the planet. For some however, alcohol consumption can evolve from casual enjoyment into a harmful dependency. Recognizing the signs of alcoholism, understanding the dangers associated with alcohol abuse, and knowing the importance of treatment are essential steps in addressing this deeply rooted issue.
Signs of Alcoholism
They don’t call it cunning, baffling, and powerful for nothing. Alcoholism often develops gradually and subtly making identifying it challenging. However, there are several key signs that can signify a problematic relationship with alcohol:
- Increased Tolerance: Needing to drink more to achieve the same effect is a common sign of developing dependency.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Withdrawal signs are a major indicator of an alcohol addiction. The body has become physically dependent on booze. Detox symptoms like shaking, sweating, nausea, anxiety, mood swings, and even seizures and hallucinations can occur.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: As the alcoholism progresses, missing work, school, and family obligations becomes more common due to being too drunk or too sick from not drinking.
- Loss of Control: Being unable to limit alcohol intake or having unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit drinking.
- Continuing Despite Problems: They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results. Continuing to drink despite physical, psychological, and social consequences caused by alcohol is insane behavior and a hallmark of alcoholism.
- Preoccupation with Drinking: Spending a lot of time thinking about drinking, obtaining alcohol, and recovering from its effects.
- Isolation & Secretive Behavior: Drinking alone or hiding alcohol consumption from others.
The Dangers of Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol addiction is a chronic, progressive, and ultimately fatal disease if left untreated.
- Physical Health Risks: Consistent alcohol abuse will lead to liver disease, cardiovascular problems, weakened immune system, and increased risk of cancers. Alcohol wreaks havoc on the body over the long-term.
- Mental Health Issues: Alcohol is a depressant and can exacerbate mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. It also negatively affects memory and overall cognitive abilities.
- Social & Legal Problems: There is an inverse relationship between the consumption of alcohol and the health of relationships. On top of that, the risk of legal issues, such as DUIs or public intoxication arrests, increases.
- Risky Behaviors: Alcohol impairs judgment and increases the likelihood of engaging in dangerous activities, including unprotected sex and reckless driving.
- Dependence & Addiction: As drinking continues and tolerance builds, the body becomes dependent on alcohol, leading to a cycle of abuse that is difficult to break without help.
The Importance of Medical Detox for Alcohol Addiction
For those struggling with alcohol addiction, quitting "cold turkey" can be an extremely dangerous and life-threatening experience due to the severity of detox symptoms. Medical detox is a must if one is considering quitting.
- Safety: Health and safety are paramount when quitting alcohol and a medical detox program provides a controlled and medically monitored environment where healthcare professionals can manage detox symptoms and provide 24/7 supervision.
- Support: Emotional and psychological support during detox can make all the difference. Helping someone in the midst of withdrawal cope with anxiety, depression, and stress could be the difference between sobriety and relapse.
- Medication: Using doctor prescribed medication to manage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings make the detox process more manageable and successful.
- Foundation for Recovery: A successful detox lays the groundwork for ongoing treatment, including therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes.
Get Help Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism or substance abuse, professional alcohol addiction treatment is a must. Addressing and dealing with addiction early can prevent a mountain of heartache in the long run.
Call Sunflower Recovery today to talk with our admissions team about how to best help you or a loved one with their alcohol addiction. We can walk you through our program, answer any questions or recommend an alternative route if treatment may not be the right course right now. We’re here to help.