Alcohol Addiction

What’s on this page

• What is Alcohol addiction?

• Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

• Treatment Options For Alcohol Addiction

• Alcohol Stats & Facts

What Is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction is characterised by alcohol dependency and is the most serious form of a drinking problem with the strong and uncontrollable desire to drink. It is an addiction that causes individuals to not be able to function in their daily lives without needing to drink alcohol.

Alcoholic addiction is considered a chronic illness and can be life-threatening if it is not addressed and treated promptly. In 2019, there were 7,565 deaths registered in the UK that were related to alcohol-specific causes.

Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

• Craving – a strong need or compulsion to drink.

• Loss of control – the inability to limit one’s drinking on any given occasion.

• Physical dependence – withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety, occur when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.

• Tolerance – the need to drink greater amounts of alcohol in order to get high.

Treatment Options For Alcohol Addiction

There are several treatment options available for those struggling with alcohol addiction:

• Detoxification: The first step in treating alcohol addiction is detoxification, which involves clearing alcohol from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms.

• Rehabilitation Programs: These programs provide structured treatment plans that include therapy, counseling, and support groups.

• Counseling and Therapy: Individual or group therapy can help individuals understand the root causes of their addiction and develop coping strategies.

• Medication: Certain medications can help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.

• Support Groups: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous offer peer support and shared experiences to help individuals stay sober.

Alcohol Stats & Facts

• In 2019, there were 7,565 deaths registered in the UK that were related to alcohol-specific causes.

• Alcohol misuse is the biggest risk factor for death, ill-health, and disability among 15-49-year-olds in the UK.

• It is also the fifth biggest risk factor across all ages.

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