Alcoholism 2

Alcoholism
What is Alcoholism?
*Alcoholism- Tendency to Drink more than Intended with
Unsuccessful Attempts to STOP Drinking; is Common
Facts:
*Problems with Alcohol Use- 8% in United States; Men are
4 times more likely than Women (to become Alcoholics)
*Alcohol- Psychologic and Physical Dependency the interferes
with Family, the ability to Socialize, Work, Physical Injury from
Fights, Falls or Accidents (harm to you or others) and often
leads to Divorce and Unemployment
*Increased Risks- Genetic or Biochemical Defect; come from
Broken Homes
*Feelings- Isolation, Shy, Lonely, Hostile, Depressed, may be
Sexually Immature, Self-Destructive Behaviors
*Alcohol Withdrawal- begins 12 to 48 Hours after Stop Drinking
*Side Effects- Memory Loss, Malnutrition, Uncoordinated,
Confusion, Depression, Sleeplessness, Nightmares, Excessive
Sweating; if Pregnant Severe Birth Defects
What do I need to do?
*See your Physician- Antabuse, Disulfiram, Naltrexone
*See a Registered Dietitian- for Diet Information; Healthy Eating
*Alcoholics Anonymous- Religious Context for a recovering
Alcoholic to socialize with Support for Self-Esteem and
Confidence