Alcohol consumption is the fourth biggest cause of preventable deaths worldwide, accounting for roughly 5% of all deaths. When taking alcohol is stopped, severe withdrawal symptoms are experienced because drinking rewires the brain and builds physical dependence.
A heavy drinking habit can lead to a number of psychological,medical, and social effects, ranging from liver disease, weight gain, and spousal violence to financial losses, unemployment, and fetal injury. It is important to understand how alcohol is used and to seek out accessible resources to reduce its influence.
What Is Alcohol Addiction and How Does It Affect You?
Often referred to as alcoholism, alcohol addiction happens when a person feels compelled to use alcohol regardless of the negative consequences. The difference between addiction and dependency is that addictions are psychological processes, rather than physiological ones. They can manifest separately, although they usually occur simultaneously.In accordance with the American Psychiatric Association (APA), alcohol addiction, sometimes called alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a mental health problem caused by abnormal brain functioning caused by alcohol. As a result of these changes, continued use and relapse become more likely. A person’s physical, social, mental, and spiritual health can be affected by alcoholism in a variety of ways depending on how severe the symptoms are.
Drinking and addiction to alcohol depend on a number of factors, as well as individual characteristics. Alcoholism is most often driven by the following risk factors:
- Drinking excessively and binge drinking before the age of 15
- Genetic factors
- A history of trauma
- Co-occurring mental health issues such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and personality disorders
Although not everyone who abuses alcohol develops an addiction, the danger increases as time goes on.
Alcohol Abuse Symptoms
The indicators of alcohol misuse are numerous, and they will have a long-term negative impact on many aspects of a person’s well-being. The following are examples of physical, psychological, and social indications of alcohol abuse:
Alcohol Abuse Physical Symptoms
Many indicators of alcohol misuse can surface quickly, such as:
- Drinking more alcohol than previously used
- Significant weight fluctuations
- Investing more time, money, and energy in obtaining and using alcohol
- Alcohol odors or a lot of empty bottles around the house
- Spending more time hungover and recovering from the effects of alcohol
- Poor self-care and hygiene
- Slurred speech, poor coordination, and walking issues
- Increased injuries from falling or participating in dangerous behaviors
Alcoholism’s Psychological Signs
When the substance interferes with normal brain function, psychological indicators of alcohol abuse appear. The following are some of the most common psychological signs of alcoholism:
- Rapid mood changes
- Possible hallucinations
- Anxiety, aggression, and irritability are increased
- Memory, attention, and concentration problems
- Inability to complete tasks on time
Alcohol addiction’s psychological effects can either mask or worsen the symptoms of a co-occurring disease. When alcohol misuse is still prevalent, accurately recognizing all current psychological illnesses is exceedingly difficult.
Getting Alcoholism Treatment
It can be alarming to realize you aren’t just a casual drinker and have an alcohol issue. Mallard Lake Detox Center, on the other hand, is here to help. Get the information on alcoholism right here. When you’re ready, discover more about our treatment options or sign up for online rehab.
