Empowering Individuals and Families to Confront Alcohol Addiction with Support and Resources.
What is alcoholism?
Alcohol use disorder is considered a pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol, or continuing to consume alcohol when it is evident to be causing problems. Unhealthy alcohol use includes alcohol that puts you or others’ health and safety at risk.
Symptoms of alcoholism:
- The inability to limit the amount of alcohol being consumed
- Making unsuccessful attempts to limit the amount of alcohol being consumed
- Feeling a strong craving to drink alcohol
- Giving up social, work, and hobbies to consume alcohol
- Developing a tolerance to alcohol, needing to consume more to have similar effects
What is considered 1 drink?
- 12 ounces of beer (5%)
- 9 ounces of malt liquor (7%)
- 5 ounces of wine (12%)
- 5 ounces of hard liquor (40%)
When should you or a loved one seek help?
Individuals who have developed a problem with alcohol must monitor their relationship with alcohol and understand what is considered to not be normal. If you feel like you consume too much, too often, or if your loved ones are concerned about you, it may be time to see a doctor to get a handle on the unhealthy habit.
Health impact of alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder can lead to health problems if not addressed properly. Alcoholism can cause liver disease, digestive problems, heart problems, diabetes complications, sexual function, eye problems, birth defects, bone damage, neurological complications, weakened immune system, and increased cancer risk. Most people enjoy an alcoholic beverage after a long day or week, but it is important to understand that there can be severe health problems if this turns into an addiction.
Resources for alcohol use disorder
If you or a loved one is suffering from alcoholism, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are a variety of resources available to those who are suffering from this. The first and most well-known is called Alcoholics Anonymous, which is the oldest support group for people in recovery from alcoholism. The second is called Secular Organizations for Sobriety, which consists of support groups across the United States, and these groups use a nonreligious path to sobriety. There are also avenues for individuals who are facing health complications due to alcohol use. If non-medical home care is needed, there are also A-1 Home Care Agency. A-1 Home Care Agency specializes in caregiving, at home care, and choosing the perfect caregiver for each individual, at home. The home care assistance services they provide are senior care, respite care, in-home care services, round-the-clock care, after surgery care, memory care, hospice care and more for elderly, senior, disabled and terminally ill patients. If you or a loved one is interested in finding a care provider, call (562) 929-8400 or (949) 650-3800.
