Alcohol Abuse

Course overview

ALCOHOL ABUSE OBJECTIVES: Define what is alcohol is Define signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse Define tolerance of alcohol abuse Define three myths of alcohol abuse Define the effects of alcohol abuse Define treatments for alcohol abuse INTRODUCTION: Alcohol abuse is defined as a habitual misuse of alcohol. Alcohol is considered the most common abused drug in the United States. Alcohol abuse is considered a problem that is repeated in four main areas of life. These are Social, interpersonal, occupational, and interpersonal. Alcohol abuse isn't specific to certain ages or gender. It effects all ages and all gender. Alcohol abuse can be acute or chronic, depending on how long the drinking has occurred. Alcohol abuse is related to many triggers in our lives as well. Drinking is seen as common in many cultures, but if the drinking effects one's life, then are perceived to have a drinking problem. SIGNS & SYMPTOMS: Alcohol abuse isn't always an easy thing to diagnose or for an individual to admit they have a problem. Some individuals can't understand that if their alcohol is used as a coping mechanism to take away the negative feelings, this could lead to a negative ending. Be able to understand that one has a problem is the actual first step to wanting to overcome the abuse. Many Some common signs and symptoms to observe for alcohol abuse are the following: Decrease work performance Failing grades Skipping appointments Driving while intoxicated Abusing alcohol with also using drugs Fighting with family due to drinking Drinking and getting drunk with friends Drinking after having a bad day Drink to eliminate physical symptoms of withdrawal. Black out while drinking Feelings of guilt while drinking Tolerance is defined as an allowable amount of variation of a specified quantity. Tolerance is one of the first warning signs of alcoholism. Tolerance means that you need more alcohol over time to feel the same relaxed effects. Not every person that drinks becomes and alcoholic. But people that do drink are at a greater risk of becoming an alcoholic. Many individuals that have a tolerance to alcohol don't even realize MYTHS ABOUT DRINKING: There are a few myths that have been reported with alcohol abuse. "l can stop drinking anytime I want to." "My drinking is my problem only." "Since I only drink wine or beer, I'm not an alcoholic." "l get up every day for work." "l can drink and still be in control." "l can quickly sober up if I need to." Alcoholics will repeat these myths over and over, and actually believe their true. Sometimes family members and friends will also believe these myths, because they don't want to believe that their loved one is an alcoholic. Until the patient of loved is ready to admit the person has an alcohol issue, things will continue to worse overtime. Some alcoholics are able to function on a daily bases, without coworkers being aware that they drink daily. Alcoholics can on for months or years with being able to get up on time for work. It is when the alcohol begins to effect the person's daily function, that possible treatment will be seeked. Some alcoholics feel that if they drink to take the edge off that it's okay to drive since they're able to still function. What family and loved one's need to realize is if the patient won't admit they have a problem with alcohol, then they need to at least seek treatment for themselves to deal with coping of alcohol abuse. There is many support peer groups that assist loved one's in learning coping mechanisms with a loved one that is an alcoholic. EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE: Not only does alcohol abuse affect someone's daily functioning, but it can cause many serious health problems in the long run. Alcohol drinking can cause serious medical problems with one's liver, such as cirrhosis of the liver. This is a horrible disease to have. Alcohol abuse is seen as a reason for divorces, loss