It is a common practice to have a drink during dinner, at a social function, celebrations, or even in the evening before going to bed. On the other hand, binge drinking can be classified as a dangerous habit, which can result in vomiting, loss of sensory perception, blackouts and in the end, dependency. This insidious abuse can progress so rapidly and unexpectedly, that the involved often does not realize it has become a dangerous problem, not just for themselves, but also for their loved ones. Loss of consciousness can indeed lead to accidents, rape and additional health risks, such as contracting venereal diseases and AIDS through unprotected sex.
Alcoholism is a chronic disease that can destroy one's life and, if not treated properly, will affect relationships, health, work, and finances. If the addict is pregnant this compulsive behavior can endanger the unborn child as well as the mother. One more reason to 'kick the habit!'
Like any other addictive disorder, distorted obsessive drinking also has a cause, one that needs to be identified before a suitable treatment plan can be started. Genetic and biologic predispositions, emotional distress such as anxiety and stress, depression, any kind of abuse, or other psychological aspects, and social or cultural pressures are often at the root of the problem.
Irrational drinking can produce a physical and psychological dependency over time. Treating alcoholism can only begin if the alcoholic is ready to change his or her life and is aware that removing alcohol from their daily routine may not be easy. There is no way around it, withdrawal and detoxification will definitely cause pain, which may display itself in a number of specific characteristic, uncomfortable signs and symptoms. These manifestations may occur as hallucinations, shakes, nausea, convulsions, seizures, stomach problems, and possibly even heart failure. If there is more than one dependency to be treated - some alcoholics are also prone to drug and other addictions - the symptoms may be worse, and in some instances even deadly - especially if the different substances conflict with each other, or the victim ends up overdosing.
Quite often people with an alcohol abuse problem enter treatment reluctantly because they have denied their problem for way too long. The heavily dependent drinker may need screening and intervention to finally recognize their devastating addiction, and may need professional help to recover, after their level of dependency has been determined. Effective treatment may include goal setting, cognitive behavioral techniques and therapy, medication, use of self-help manuals, counseling and follow-up care at a treatment facility. Countless alcoholism treatment programs include abstinence, individual and group therapy, participation in alcoholism support groups, educational instructions, family participation, and the help of experienced counselors and professional staff.
It is no secret that the social problems arising from alcoholism can be significant. After the initial treatment has ended, it is of the utmost importance, that family and friends are educated on how to provide ample support, and the recovering individual receives continuing aftercare. The difficult fight against alcoholism does not end when a patient leaves a treatment center, or has had the last of the acute counseling sessions. It will be a long and ongoing struggle to achieve permanent abstinence and maintain it, a battle well worth fighting.
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