Alcoholism is the excessive consumption of alcohol, where one loses control over how much they drink. Below we’ll explain some of the causes of alcoholism and its effects in further detail.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), each year alcohol-related deaths account for 3 million deaths globally, which represents 5.3% of all deaths. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption causes numerous diseases, such as liver cirrhosis. There’s also a relationship between some mental disorders and alcohol.
Importance of alcoholism
Alcoholism is a chronic illness, or, in other words, a lifelong addiction. However, this doesn’t mean that it can’t be successfully treated. Additionally, alcoholism is considered to be a progressive and degenerative disease. It can have numerous repercussions on both one’s health and social life.
Alcohol is more damaging and addictive in adolescence than in adulthood. Alcohol addiction can be difficult to overcome and support from loved ones is fundamental in treatment. The first step toward recovery is recognizing the problem.
What are the causes of alcoholism?
Studies show that genetic factors play an important role in alcohol dependency. Scientists have identified various genes as underlying risks to alcohol addiction, though further study is necessary.
This doesn’t mean that a person will develop an addiction just because there is alcoholism in their family. There are many possible causes of alcoholism, including:
- Low self-esteem.
- Suffering from a mood disorder like depression. High stress or anxiety can also be a factor.
- Social factors. The culture and society you live in heavily influence the risk of alcoholism. Access to alcohol and cultural acceptance are also indicators.
- Type of work. People who work in pubs and night clubs have a higher likelihood of suffering from alcoholism.
- Prolonged consumption.
Indicators of alcohol abuse
Drinking alcohol is a generally accepted behavior. This can make it difficult to identify when it’s becoming a problem.
There are certain patterns to indicate addiction, like lying about drinking and drinking in secret. Others might be failing to follow through with personal responsibilities or a decrease in work ethic. It’s also concerning if a person drinks alone or in risky situations.
We can spot physical symptoms, such as changes in weight, increased headaches, and altered speech. Alcoholism can also affect memory and concentration. A person suffering from the disease might even become irritable and aggressive.
What are the consequences of alcohol abuse?
As we’ve mentioned, alcohol can damage a person physically, intellectually, and socially. Alcohol consumption is related to nervous system effects, cardiovascular disease, digestive illnesses, and more.
Delirium tremens is caused by alcohol withdrawal syndrome. This can also trigger physical effects such as heart palpitations, cold chills, and seizures. If left untreated, alcohol withdrawal can lead to death.
Alcoholism makes up a large percentage of liver disease. Alcohol consumption increases the amount of fat in the liver, which can cause inflammation and, eventually, cirrhosis of liver tissue.
Gastritis, ulcers, and vitamin deficiency are other serious side effects of alcoholism. It can also affect sexual activity, sight, circulation, and more.
What you can do
Alcohol abuse is common in today’s society. And as we’ve seen, the causes of alcoholism can vary between people, and it can affect a person’s social life and mental and physical health.
In fact, alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause serious harm to the fetus. That’s why it’s important to identify the problem as soon as possible. Talk to your doctor or find a support group if you’re suffering from alcoholism.
