Alcoholism is the term used for people with problems associated with alcohol , the uncontrolled or compulsive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can be used to increase inhibitions, used for socialising, short term relief from emotional pain such as bereavement, relationship or financial issues or even relief from physical pain such as an injury. Short term effects of alcohol are generally not a problem and can be used to release excess tension or pressure, in small quantities alcohol can be good for the body.
Alcohol consumption becomes a problem when it becomes addictive, becoming dependent upon alcohol either in day to day activities or to cure all forms of emotional problems you have, if it effects relationships, work or quality of your life then you may have a problem. The difference between alcohol abuse and other forms of substance abuse are due to the availability and legality of alcohol, alcohol can be used as part of socialising and remains legal to those over 18, not many (if any) forms of substance abuse contain both these characteristics.
Especially in this day and age where 24hour drinking is possible and alcohol is cheaper than most substances, alcohol in society or within groups can be seen as 'cool, exciting and a method of proving ones masculinity', there can be a fine line between normal alcohol consumption and binge drinking. Although the affects of alcohol are obvious it can be easier to deny that the problem exists, or that you have a problem with drinking, preventing you from obtaining the help that you need.
Why do people become addicted to alcohol ?
There are many reasons why someone would become addicted to alcohol, although not extensive some of the reasons are:
Brought up with alcoholic parents or guardians
Numb the pain from current or past abuse
People with some form of mental illness
Constant stress or a highly stressed job
People with high expectations of themselves and are unable to meet them
People who have lost access to someone they love
Financial difficulties
People with social problems, such as fearful of society
Bereavement of someone very close
Long-term illness
Effects of substance abuse
Effects & behaviours
Smell of alcohol upon body
Criminal acts such as violence or abuse
Increased self confidence
Judgment and movement problems, such as balance
Damage to almost every part of the body
Sexual impotence and reduced fertility
Concentration and memory problems
Becoming tolerent to alcohol
Difficulty with sleeping
Dependancy upon alcohol, inability to function without it