Effects of Alcoholism
Short-term and long-term effects of alcoholism
Alcoholism’s short-term effects can take on a number of different forms. It has been stated that the amount of alcohol that is consumed and the circumstances behind it play a significant role in the level of intoxication that is reached. The primary short-term effects of alcoholism include:
- flushed appearance
- impaired judgment
- impaired muscle coordination
- improved mood
- increased self-confidence
- increased sociability
- possible euphoria
- shortened attention span
Alcoholism is typically characterized by physical dependence and tolerance build-up, both of which inhibit the individual’s ability to control the amount of consumption. Long-term alcohol abuse can have serious physical, psychological, and social consequences.
The long-term physical effects of alcoholism include:
- alcoholic dementia
- cirrhosis of the liver
- epilepsy
- heart disease
- pancreatitis
- sexual dysfunction
The long-term psychological effects of alcoholism include:
- ADHD
- anxiety and depression
- anti-social or narcissistic disorder
- bi-polar disorder
- borderline personality disorder
- confusion and dementia
- damage to the brain and its normal function
- panic disorders
- post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- psychosis
- schizophrenia
Social impact
In addition to the short-term and long-term alcoholism effects, the individual is oftentimes impacted at the social level as well. The social effects of alcoholism include:
- assault
- burglary
- child abuse
- child neglect
- domestic violence
- engaging in criminal behavior
- homicide
- rape
- suicide
There can be a number of other legal issues as well, including drunk and disorderly conduct and driving while under the influence (DUI or DWI). Another social issue is how family, friends, and loved ones will isolate the alcoholic because of their behavior and the mental disorientation and impairment that accompanies intoxication. This isolation can lead to domestic violence as well as result in marital conflict and eventual separation or divorce.
The Freedom Center is here to help you
If you or a loved one is suffering with any of the alcoholism effects mentioned above, we would like to speak with you about our facility and our alcohol addiction rehab program. Our program can be customized to address those personal needs that are exclusive to you so it is more individualized compared to other alcohol addiction treatment and recovery programs. Additionally, it is rated as one of the most effective programs in the US with a past history of success that oftentimes exceeds 70%.
If you would like to find out more about alcoholism effects or get further information about the Freedom Center and our addiction treatment and recovery programs, please call us today at the toll-free phone number above. We will be happy to answer your questions and assist you in any way we can.

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