Alcohol Abuse & Effects

Many people do not consider alcohol to be a drug, but it is. In fact, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Analysis, alcohol abuse is a major drug problem in the United States. Statistics show that over 18 percent of Americans experience alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence at some time in their lives. The first step to treating alcohol abuse is recognizing its signs and effects

Identification

• Alcohol abuse is the excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. As stated by the American Psychiatric Association, there is no physical dependence for an alcohol abuser but continued alcohol abuse can lead to alcoholism and serious health problems.

Signs and Symptoms

• There are many signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse. Some of the most common include: craving alcohol, loss of control, increased tolerance and risky behavior.

Short Term Effects

• Short term effects of alcohol abuse include: nausea, dizziness, slurred speech, impaired judgment, loss of control and hangovers.

Long Term Effects

• Prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to alcoholism and other physical and emotional health problems. Permanent damage may be done to the brain and liver as well as other vital organs. Relationships may suffer or even be abandoned as a result of alcohol abuse.

Treatment

• Once the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse have been positively identified in an individual, the next step is treatment. There are several methods of alcoholic treatment including: inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation, counseling and support groups.