Alcohol abuse manifests as drinking becomes increasingly important and takes priority over everything else, including job, friends and family. People who drink too much on a regular basis are alcohol abusers or problem drinkers. They may demonstrate some ability to set limits and some measure of control over their drinking, but the alcohol use is self-destructive and can start to present a danger to others as well.
The physical and emotional effects of alcohol abuse can often impair judgment to a dangerous level. While some people are able to maintain this level of drinking for a long amount of time, alcohol abusers are at risk for progressing to alcoholism. It might gradually progress as the tolerance to alcohol increases or can happen in response to a large stressful event, such as death of a loved one, unemployment or retirement. Although people may use alcohol at different levels this basic pattern is the same.
Alcohol Abuse Signs
Problems at work; continually late, missed days, continual mistakes
Difficulties at home; coming home late, sleeping a lot, forgetting chores
Drinking while driving; DUI's, accidents
Legal problems and financial problems
Deteriorating relationships
Mood swings; anger, depression
Signs that Alcohol Abuse is Progressing to Alcoholism
Craving: an intense desire or compulsion for alcohol
Loss of Control of Alcohol: the inability to manage one's alcohol consumption drinking despite its negative consequences
Physical Dependence: the individual will experience actual withdrawal symptoms when alcohol consumption is reduced such as nausea, sweating, tremors, anxiety, insomnia and in more severe cases convulsions or even seizures requiring immediate medical treatment.
Tolerance: The need to drink greater amounts of alcohol in order to experience the same feeling of drunkenness they initially felt. Tolerance can lead to alcohol poisoning.
Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Treatment at Lakeview Health Systems
People from around the country come to Lakeview Health Systems in Jacksonville, Florida for our nationally recognized inpatient alcohol abuse and alcoholism treatment programs. From detox to a variety of therapies and holistic approaches, our team of board certified physicians and psychiatrists, therapists, nutritionists and other support staff, helps our patients work towards long-term recovery. Our alcohol abuse and alcoholism treatment center is certified by the Joint Commission and licensed by the State of Florida. In addition to alcoholism treatment we also provide treatment for drug addiction and dual diagnosis.
Alcohol abuse signs should not be ignored. Get the help you need. Call Lakeview Health Systems' toll-free helpline at 1-800-708-4165 or complete the "Get Help Now" contact form for confidential help. We are available to assist you 24 hours a day seven days a week and offer you the assistance you need.
