How to quit drinking? Alcoholism Symptoms and Treatment

Alcoholism is a chronic progressive disease characterized by the uncontrolled consumption of alcoholic beverages. It has a significant impact on an individual's physical and mental health, leading to many social problems.

causes of alcoholism

genetic and biological factors

Research shows that genetics play an important role in a person's response to alcohol. Some genes can increase susceptibility to the effects of alcohol, thereby increasing the likelihood of addiction. Biological factors such as age, gender and general health also influence the risk of alcohol abuse.

psychological factors

People with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or eating disorders are at higher risk for alcoholism. Using alcohol to cope with stress or relieve unpleasant feelings can lead to addiction. Additionally, low self-esteem and an inability to cope with stress can also lead to drinking.

social and cultural factors

Social and cultural environments influence alcohol consumption. In communities where drinking is widely accepted and encouraged, the risk of binge drinking is higher. Some people may drink heavily when under stress, which also increases the risk of addiction. These may be students, people working in stressful situations, or people facing difficulties in their personal lives.

symptoms of alcoholism

physical symptoms

The physical symptoms of alcoholism depend on how often and how much a person drinks. Common symptoms include:

• Increased tolerance to alcohol means you need to drink larger doses to achieve the same effect.
• Withdrawal symptoms occur when you stop drinking alcohol. This may include anxiety, irritability, loss of appetite, insomnia, nausea, and tremors.
• Overall health worsens, including problems with the liver, pancreas, heart, and neurological disorders.

psychological symptoms

Psychological symptoms of alcoholism may include:

• Obsessed with the idea of drinking, unable to control drinking, and losing interest in previous hobbies.
• Feeling guilty or regretful after drinking alcohol.
• Increased anxiety, depression, and other mental problems that may be worsened by drinking alcohol.

behavioral symptoms

Behavioral signs of alcoholism include:

• Unable to fulfill work, college, or family responsibilities.
• Continue drinking, even if it causes relationship problems or poor health.
• Attempting to conceal alcohol consumption and lying about the amount and duration of drinking.

consequences of alcoholism

Alcohol abuse has numerous consequences that can seriously impact a person's health, social relationships, professional life, and finances.

healthy

Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of illnesses and health problems, including:

• Liver disease, including alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
• Heart disease such as: hypertension, heart failure, alcoholic cardiomyopathy.
• Gastrointestinal diseases, including gastritis and pancreatitis.
• Neurological disorders, including alcoholic polyneuropathy and alcoholic encephalopathy.
• Development of mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and alcohol psychosis.

social and occupational consequences

• Family and relationship problems, including arguments, divorce and domestic violence.
• Professional issues: lost productivity, layoffs, loss of professional skills.
• Social isolation, where close people stay away from the alcoholic.

How to quit drinking

Alcohol withdrawal is a complex process that requires an individual approach and expert support. Here are some of the most common methods:

1. Contact an expertTreatment for alcoholism often begins with consultation with a specialist, who can recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This may be a psychiatrist, psychologist or anesthesiologist.
2. HospitalizationPeople with severe addiction require hospitalization. In the hospital, patients receive medication under the supervision of a doctor and receive therapy from a psychotherapist.
3. outpatient treatmentOutpatient treatment is suitable for those with mild to moderate alcohol dependence. The patient visits a doctor or support group regularly but continues to live at home.
4. support groupsAlcoholics Anonymous support groups can help with alcohol abuse problems. They hold meetings where people can share their stories and find support from others facing similar issues.
5. medical treatementMedications can help with alcohol withdrawal. Some of these reduce the desire to drink, and others help you avoid drinking by causing unpleasant reactions to alcohol. However, any medication must be used under a doctor's supervision.
6. psychotherapyPsychotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of alcoholism. It can help people understand the causes of addiction, learn new ways to cope with stress, and improve relationships with loved ones.

It's important to remember that there is no one "right" path to sobriety. Each person may require a unique approach, and successful treatment often requires a combination of different approaches.

Over-the-counter medicines used to treat alcoholism

Although most alcohol addiction treatment medications require a prescription, there are some over-the-counter medications that can help combat alcoholism. They can serve as additional tools in a comprehensive treatment approach. However, it is important to remember that the use of any drug should be done under expert supervision.

1. Dietary supplements and vitamin complexesDietary supplements (BAS) and vitamin and mineral complexes can help the body recover after long-term alcohol use. B vitamins, along with magnesium and zinc, are often recommended to support the nervous system and overall health. A good treatment is to use a medication that contains both the minerals needed for normal function and a multivitamin.
2. natural treatmentSome natural remedies, such as milk thistle and motherwort, may help combat alcohol addiction. They have a calming effect and can help the body cope with stress when withdrawing from alcohol. Milk thistle, for example.

Prevent alcoholism

Alcoholism prevention includes a range of measures designed to prevent the initiation of drinking, reduce drinking among those who already drink, and reduce the harm caused by drinking. Here are some of them:

1. Education and EnlightenmentEducation is an important tool in preventing alcohol abuse. Educating people about the dangers and consequences of alcohol abuse can help people think about its consequences.
2. early interventionEarly intervention involves identifying and treating people who have started drinking but are not yet addicted. This may include a brief consultation with a doctor or other health care professional.
3. Liquor Regulation PolicyGovernment measures such as age limits on alcohol sales, alcohol taxes and advertising restrictions help reduce alcohol consumption by the public.
4. Healthy lifestyle supportPromoting a healthy lifestyle can help people cope with stress and reduce dependence on alcohol.
5. Family and community supportFamily and community support play an important role in preventing alcohol abuse. Loved ones can help people overcome stress and avoid addiction.
6. Get psychological helpProviding mental health support to those who need it can help people manage their emotions and cope with stress.

Alcoholism is a disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or social status. Preventing this disease requires comprehensive prevention and treatment and the active participation of the whole society.

in conclusion

Alcoholism is a serious disease that affects not only an individual's health but also all aspects of their social, professional and personal lives. It can lead to a variety of illnesses, negatively impact relationships and lead to financial problems. A variety of factors, including genetics, environment and personal circumstances, influence the risk of alcohol abuse. Knowing this fact can help prevent this disease.Symptoms of alcoholism vary, but it's important to know that persistent excessive drinking, difficulty controlling drinking, and persistent cravings despite negative consequences are all signs of addiction.Treating alcoholism can be a difficult process, but with support from professionals and family, people can recover from this addiction. Referrals to specialists, inpatient and outpatient treatment, support groups, medication, and psychotherapy are just some of the tools available to combat alcoholism.The importance of preventing alcohol abuse cannot be underestimated. This includes education and awareness, early intervention, regulation of alcohol sales and advertising, promotion of healthy lifestyles, family support and access to mental health services.