Alcohol

Alcohol is a substance that is consumed in small or moderate amounts by many individuals in social environments. In these amounts it is generally safe, although it tends to have effects that are harmful to most every part of the body.

Some people drink alcohol to excess, using it to self-medicate or escape their problems, using it as a coping tool. You or your loved one may have a problem with alcoholism if even one of these are true: 

People that are pre-disposed to alcoholism through genetics (medical experts believe that alcoholism is a disease), while using alcohol to cope, are likely to be heavy drinkers and at some point finally cross the line into alcoholism. Once a person crosses that line, changes in brain chemistry make it hard to discontinue use.

Many, but not all, people with alcoholism become physically addicted whereas their body literally needs it all day to function. If they stop, they may experience delirium tremons (shaking) or even seizures if discontinued abruptly.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease, but some people with alcoholism recognize their problem before they become physically addicted. Many alcoholics feel they don’t have a problem because they many only drink wine or beer, or only drink after work. But the key to “defining” alcoholism is that it is affecting their life. If an alcoholic recognizes this before they develop a more severe problem, they may be able to stop drinking and change their life before it is too late. Alcohol is deadly.

The best way to begin recovery from alcoholism is to enter a residential treatment program that lasts at least 30 days at a facility known as a rehabilitation center or “rehab.” Recovery Hub can help you find the best program suited to your individual situation and needs.