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Consequences of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a serious and life-threatening disease. According to the CDC, the number of deaths attributed to alcohol in 2006, excluding homicides and accidents, was 22,073. The consequences of alcoholism are wide reaching. Not only are there physical consequences faced by the alcoholic, but many alcoholics also face mental and emotional consequences. Legal ramifications may also be present for the alcoholic if he commits acts while under the influence, such as driving. Finally, the alcoholic's family members and loved ones also have to deal with the consequences of alcoholism.

  1. Liver

    • The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol so that it can be eliminated from the body. An alcoholic often damages her liver as she drinks more alcohol than can be processed by the liver. That excess can injure the liver. Once the liver is injured, the alcoholic may face multiple consequences including kidney failure, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, liver failure, coma, liver cancer and high blood pressure in the liver.

    Incarceration

    • Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system. The behavior of someone who has consumed alcohol can be dramatically different from his normal behavior. An alcoholic is at risk for making poor decisions, becoming aggressive, and harming himself or others. One consequence of alcoholism may be spending time in jail or prison. If the alcoholic becomes violent and harms someone else, he can be charged with assault and may spend time in jail. In addition, if he makes the decision to drive while under the influence, he could harm or kill someone, or even himself. Multiple convictions of driving while intoxicated can also result in prison time.

    Family

    • The consequences of alcoholism for the family of the alcoholic are painful and difficult. Oftentimes, the alcoholic alienates family and friends due to her behavior and actions. Alcoholism can cause divorce and separation from children. The emotional harm that this causes children may lead them to need counseling or therapy. Parents and siblings of the alcoholic may choose to distance themselves, which results in a feeling of loss and perhaps even shame.

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