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Addiction

Helping people make informed choices about alcohol.

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about alcohol - Addiction

Addiction

Alcoholism is a disease

SUMMARY

  • Alcoholism is characterised by alcohol craving, loss of control, physical dependence, alcohol tolerance

about alcohol - addiction

Alcoholism is a chronic, often progressive, disease that's characterised by physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.

It's sometimes also known as alcohol dependence. Alcohol dependency may result from a genetic predisposition, mental illness, sustained heavy and abusive drinking or a combination of these factors. 

Recent research in genetics and neuroscience has identified certain genetic characteristics that are believed to be related to alcohol dependence. Scientists are continuing to research the relationship between genetics and alcoholism.

There's no known cure for alcoholism, though many people can stay sober for the long term with commitment and effort. However, before people with alcoholism can start recovery, they have to admit that they have a drinking problem. Some people have very serious problems with alcohol without having all the signs and symptoms of alcoholism.

about alcohol - Addiction

The warning signs

Here are some of the signs that someone might have a drinking problem 
(it's not a complete list by any means).

  • Feeling a compulsion to drink

  • Needing to drink to feel good or normal

  • Being unable to limit how much they are drinking at any particular time

  • Losing interest in activities, hobbies or relationships

  • Needing to drink greater amounts of alcohol to feel the desired effect

  • Experiencing blackouts – forgetting what happened when they were drunk

  • Experiencing physical withdrawal

  • Drinking alone or hiding their drinking from others

about alcohol - addiction

If you do experience any of these signs or symptoms – or know someone else who does – please contact a doctor, healthcare professional or alcohol treatment organisation for help. Such professionals and organisations may assist with counselling, prescription medications and other support.

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