RSS Dangers of Alcohol Abuse
Understanding alcohol abuse
In order to better understand what alcohol abuse comprises, you have to know what the primary dangers of alcohol abuse are. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) defines alcohol abuse as “the psychiatric diagnosis describing the recurring use of alcoholic beverages despite negative consequences.” All too often, the terminology “alcohol abuse” is used interchangeably with alcoholism which is incorrect since alcoholism implies an addiction to or dependency on alcohol.
Defining alcohol abuse, addiction, and dependency
Alcohol abuse is oftentimes used interchangeably with alcohol addiction or dependency. The following will help you understand the difference between alcohol abuse, addiction, and dependency so you have a better understanding of the dangers of alcohol abuse:
Alcohol abuse is the excessive and/or habitual use of alcohol to alter a person’s emotions, moods, or their state of consciousness. It refers to alcohol use that is not culturally and socially acceptable.
Alcohol addiction is a chronic, highly progressive disorder and illness stemming from the continual abuse of alcohol. It is characterized by a compulsive and uncontrollable, physical and/or psychological craving for alcohol.
Alcohol dependency describes the early stages of alcohol addiction and is a more chronic and complex condition that abuse eventually leads to. Despite the fact that the continual abuse of alcohol eventually leads to addiction or dependency, both of these conditions are more difficult to treat and recover from. This is especially true when it has been going on for an extended period of time.
The long-term effects of alcohol abuse
Chronic alcohol abuse oftentimes results in alcohol addiction or alcohol dependency. These conditions can eventually become fatal if the individual does not get the professional help they need from an alcohol abuse treatment center program.
Despite the fact that the immediate or short-term effects of alcohol abuse usually do not last for any extended length of time, the dangers of alcohol abuse can be life-threatening and result in fatality. Although they are not always fatal, these long-term effects include:
- damage to the brain
- heart disease
- kidney failure
- liver disease (i.e. cirrhosis)
- mental disorders which includes anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, and schizophrenia
- self-injury and suicide
There are literally tens of thousands of reported cases every year that involve death or serious illnesses that are associated with alcohol abuse. This has lead many healthcare officials and the medical community to view alcoholism as a serious public health threat.
Help is only a phone call away
If you or a loved one is suffering with alcohol abuse, we encourage you to call the Freedom Center today at the toll-free phone number listed above and start getting professional help immediately. Please contact us and talk with one of our caring staff members today.
