Alcoholism
 Description
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 cant stop drinking. The alcoholic cant
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 persons willpower to do otherwise, no matter
how much risk seems to be involved.
- The urge to drink becomes the number one priority
in the alcoholics 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.
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For more information, call (601) 936-2024
or toll free (800) 863-4004.
We offer confidential assessments and
referrals.
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