Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse is a widespread problem in the United States and alcohol abuse has many dangerous, even deadly consequences. Although alcohol abuse and alcoholism are very similar in symptom, alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism because the alcohol abusers do not experience the physical cravings or dependence that alcoholics do. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol abuse as having one or more of the following situations happen in 12-month period:

· Continuing to drink even if you are having problems in your relationships that are a result or are contributed to by drinking.
· An ongoing inability to meet work, school, familial or social responsibilities.
· Alcohol related legal problems including DUIs, DWIs, and physically harming yourself or others while drunk.
· Physically endangering yourself or others while drinking.

If you answered "yes" to any of the above situations then you are probably experiencing the negative effects of alcohol abuse. There are a few more questions that the NIAAA refers to that can also be helpful in determining whether or not you or someone you love has an alcohol abuse problem. They are as follows:

· Do you or have you ever felt like you need to cut down on your drinking?
· Have people ever questioned your drinking or criticized how you act?
· Do you or have you ever felt guilty, shameful or bad about your drinking?
· Do you or have you ever taken a drink in the morning to ease the pains of a hangover or your nerves?

If you answered "yes" to one of these questions there is a possibility you have a problem with alcohol; if you answered "yes" more than one of these questions it is very likely that you have a problem with alcohol. Alcohol abuse is very common however, it must be treated in order to stop the problem before it gets worse. Often times hard drinkers or alcohol abusers are unable to seek help for their drinking problem and it progresses into full fledged alcoholism.

Alcohol abuse can be treated in a similar manner to alcoholism. Aside from the physical aspect of the diagnosis, alcohol abuse and alcoholism are almost exactly the same. If you or someone you love is experiencing problems with alcohol but are not yet alcoholic, 12-step meetings, therapy and other support groups are often helpful.

Alcohol abuse can still have the same detrimental effects on the bodies, minds and lives of problem drinkers and can lead to certain types of cancer, problems with the immune system, brain damage, and cirrhosis of the liver. Alcohol misuse and abuse also accounts for a higher risk of vehicular accidents and death and also contributes to the high numbers of homicides and suicides each year.

If you or someone you love has a problem with alcohol abuse, there is help available. Treatment Referral offers nationwide referrals for individualized treatment plans for people experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol. Do not hesitate to call, you could save a life; 800.399.3612.