Alcohol abuse has long been a topic of concern and discussion among various religions, health practitioners, philosophers, and societies. In our modern world, there are still ongoing debates and differing opinions about the classification and definition of alcoholism. Let’s take a compassionate and understanding look at the situation:
From a medical perspective, alcoholism is considered an illness resulting from the excessive consumption of alcohol over an extended period. Alcoholism describes the state of a person during their drinking phase and the early stages of recovery treatment. It indicates that the person is experiencing poor physical and mental health – in other words, they are undoubtedly unwell. (See the list of symptoms further down on this page.)
Upon achieving sobriety, individuals are often referred to as “recovering/recovered alcoholics.” The belief is that once someone has experienced alcoholism, traces of the condition remain, making them abnormally susceptible to relapse for the rest of their lives. That’s why they are still called “alcoholic” but with an adjective (i.e., “recovered alcoholic”) to distinguish them from those who are still drinking.
There is an ongoing discussion about whether it is appropriate to label people as alcoholics after they have fully recovered. Some argue that people are not more vulnerable after recovering from acute alcoholism and should not be called alcoholics afterward. For example, one argument challenges the long-held belief that a single drink will trigger a massive relapse – this is rejected as historical hearsay that has never been clinically proven.
Regardless of the debate’s outcome, it is evident that some individuals develop alcohol addiction more easily and quickly than others. (The problem is that you won’t know if you are one of them.)
One reason for susceptibility to addiction is the recent discovery of an inherited gene that makes a person (and possibly some of their children) more vulnerable to alcohol dependency. This has led to the idea that there may be an “alcoholic disorder” present at birth. Whether this inherited gene can be accurately defined as a disorder is debatable, but it is a fact that children of alcoholics, due to daily exposure to alcohol abuse at home, often follow their parents’ example.
Emotional factors also play a role in alcohol abuse
The same issues that drive some people to abuse other types of drugs, such as acute anxiety, stress, and depression, apply to alcohol abusers. In this respect, alcohol abusers may be more vulnerable to addiction than the average person.
These arguments do not imply that some individuals are immune to alcoholism.
Alcohol abuse, by its very nature, can lead to dependency in everyone – the only difference is the time it takes for addiction to develop after the onset of excessive consumption.
Two facts remain:
(1.) Excessive alcohol consumption undoubtedly causes illness (and even death) as the substance inflicts significant damage on the body and mind.
(2.) Alcohol abuse affects more than just your health – it is destructive in countless other ways.
To better understand your relationship with alcohol, review the symptoms below and decide for yourself. Remember to be honest with yourself!
Also see the ultimate guide to alcoholism and our alcohol addiction treatment page here.
Medical Conditions Created By Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol addiction can significantly impact physical health, leading to a range of short-term and long-term consequences. Excessive alcohol consumption can damage vital organs such as the liver, heart, and pancreas, as well as the nervous and digestive systems. It can also weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Additionally, alcohol addiction can result in nutritional deficiencies, weight gain, and increased risk of developing chronic diseases, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. In severe cases, alcohol addiction can even lead to life-threatening complications and death.
If you are suffering from an alcohol addiction, seeking professional help can help you regain control of your life and achieve long-term recovery. It is critical to find a qualified and experienced professional who understands the complexities of alcoholism and can assist you in navigating the challenges that come with it.
Alcohol use disorder is very often a complex issue that can have serious consequences for your physical, mental, and emotional health, as well as your relationships and overall quality of life. Seeking assistance from a professional who has worked with people who have alcohol use disorders can provide you with the support and guidance you need to overcome addiction.
Therapy, medication, support groups and other forms of care can all be used to treat alcohol related issues. Working with a professional who understands the unique challenges of alcohol and can tailor treatment to your specific needs can improve your chances of success significantly.
Remember that seeking help is a brave step towards a healthier and happier version of yourself. Anyone can overcome alcohol addiction and achieve long-term recovery it all has to do with making the descision to start recovery with the right support and care.
Other Medical Conditions Caused by Alcohol Use Disorders
