Alcoholism is a Disease
For those individuals of legal drinking age, Alcohol is a
legal and socially acceptable drug. Alcohol utilizes first
pass metabolism; it is one of the few drugs that enters the blood
stream initially from the stomach. Recent evidence suggests
that Genetic/Physiological factors, specifically the presence,
absence and amount of digestive enzyme(s) available in the
gut greatly influence the users first and continued experience
with alcohol. Individuals, who are biologically incapable
or limited in their ability to process alcohol as a toxin
experience a much higher blood alcohol level than a person
with a “normal” amount of enzyme. Such a predisposition
genetically affords the enzyme deficient (or absent) user
with a first experience, and subsequent experiences that are
more challenging and damaging to the body, both short and
long term. Social pressures and/or underlying psychiatric
co-morbidities may promote such
a person's consumption of alcohol and increase the likelihood
of abuse and addiction.
Impact on the Brain
"Alcohol consumption can damage the brain and most body organs. Areas of the brain that are especially vulnerable to alcohol-related damage are the cerebral cortex (largely responsible for our higher brain functions, including problem solving and decision making), the hippocampus (important for memory and learning), and the cerebellum (important for movement coordination)."* Source: NIDA
Alcohol Abuse*
An individual meets one or more criteria for over one year:
Role Impairment (e.g. failed work or home obligations)
Hazardous use (e.g. Driving while intoxicated)
Legal problems related to alcohol or drug use
Social or interpersonal problems due to alcohol or drugs
*Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-IV)
Alcohol Addiction and Dependency*
An individual meets 3 or more criteria for over 1 year:
Tolerance - increased drinking or using to achieve same effect
Withdrawal signs or symptoms
Drinking or using more than intended
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down on use
Excessive time related to drinking / using (obtaining, hangover, coming to)
Impaired social or work activities due to alcohol
Use despite physical or psychological consequences
*Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-IV)
Alcohol Addiction Intervention
As you are reading this, it is NOT too late. Calls are confidential
and anonymous. You may only need information; your Loved One
may need an INTERVENTION!
Call now for a free
addiction intervention consultation
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