Alcohol Dependence Essay

Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol Dependence also known as alcoholism, is a condition where an individual drinks too much, too often and in ways that harm their health, happiness and even relationships. Alcohol abuse refers to a pattern of behavior where a person drinks excessively despite the negative consequences and interference with life’s normal activities. It becomes a problem when the pattern happens on a regular basis. In the United States, nearly 14 million adults, or every one in 13 adults, abuse alcohol or have an alcoholism problem (Maldonado). The number of people who undergo treatment for alcoholism and other alcohol-related problems is not nearly as high as the number of those facing these issues. In 1997, for example, only 3.1 million

The early symptoms include slurred speech, memory impairment, poor coordination unstable moods and inappropriate behavior. A consistency of blackouts and cravings can also be signs of an alcoholic. The psychological aspect of the disease is related to the individual's thoughts and actions. The alcoholic is so focused on obtaining and consuming alcohol no matter what the consequences. They become weary and neglect responsibilities and obligations. Binge drinking is another sign of alcoholism. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, for men that’s five or more drinks in two hours, and for women that’s four or more drinks in two hours (2014). More severely affected people began to make themselves distant from family and friends over time. Also putting yourself in dangerous situations like drinking and driving or mixing with prescription drugs is another sign of alcoholism. Ultimately if drinking begins causing problems in your life, then you have a drinking problem. The serious side effects of alcohol abuse can produce damaging

It helps a person develop the skills to avoid triggers and work towards specific goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a different behavioral treatment that fixates on identifying the feelings and situations that lead to the alcohol dependence. It also assists in preventing relapses by understanding the thought process; if they relapse after a period of abstinence, it suggests that the same behavior change mechanisms failed. (Naqvi, Morgenstern, 2016). Pharmacological treatments are also available if needed. Naltrexone is commonly used to help reduce alcohol consumption. Another drug used is Disulfiram which causes unpleasant side effects such as nausea and vomiting when taken with alcohol. It encourages people to avoid drinking unless they want to experience the side