Alcoholism

Alcohol is a depressant drug that slows the activity of the brain and the spinal cord. It is a colorless liquid with a sharp, burning taste known chemically as ethyl alcohol.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled use of alcohol. Few families or friends of alcoholics are, on their own, able to understand why they “just can’t stop drinking.” The alcoholic can’t stop drinking because he or she depends on alcohol to function. The alcoholic is addicted to alcohol.

Four Characteristics of Alcoholism

• Alcoholism carries an overwhelming urge to repeat the experience of getting intoxicated on alcohol. At times, this urge will go beyond the strength of a person’s “willpower” to do otherwise, no matter how much risk seems to be involved
• The urge to drink becomes the number one priority in the alcoholic’s life
• The urge to get high with alcohol becomes linked to all other aspects of life
• An alcoholic has this incurable disease throughout life. With sobriety and time, the urge reduces in intensity and frequency, but this urge can return at any time.

What Causes Alcoholism?

Experts believe that genetic factors make certain people more vulnerable to alcoholism. Environmental, cultural, and psychological factors can also contribute to the development of the disease.

Scope of the Problem

One-third of all preventable deaths in the U.S. are related to the use of this drug. About one-half of all highway deaths are alcohol related.

What Can an Alcoholic Do?

Although alcoholism cannot be cured, alcoholics can recover and can return to a normal way of life. Recovery depends on total abstinence from alcohol. They learn to face and accept the truth that alcohol has become a problem and that drinking cannot be controlled. They must want to stop drinking for good.

Treatment

Treatment for alcoholism is available in many forms depending on individual needs. Most common are detoxification, inpatient/residential, and outpatient. Effective treatment should include individual, group, and family counseling. Also critical to successful treatment are 12 Step groups, Alcoholics Anonymous involvement, and education on the physical/emotional needs of an alcoholic.

For further information simply call (318) 678-7500 or Toll Free (877) 678-7500. We offer confidential assessments and referrals.