When people drink too much,
with time they risk becoming addicted to alcohol.
This is called alcoholism, or alcohol dependence.
It’s a disease, and it can happen at any age.
Common signs include:
Craving .
. . a strong need or urge to drink
Loss of control
. . . not being able to stop or cut down drinking
Not feeling well after
heavy drinking . . . upset stomach, sweating,
shakiness, or nervousness
A need to drink more
. . . to get the same effect as before
Neglecting activities
. . . giving up or cutting back on other activities
Continuing to drink
. . . even though alcohol is causing problems
It may be hard to imagine why
people with alcoholism can’t just “use
a little willpower” to stop drinking. But the
addiction creates an uncontrollable need for alcohol.
It can be as strong as the need for food and water.
People may want to stop because they know that drinking harms
their health and their loved ones. But quitting is
extremely difficult.
Although some people are able
to recover from alcoholism without help, many need
assistance. With treatment and support, many stop
drinking and rebuild their lives.
For more information, see
.
If
you think someone in your life shows these signs,
check Real Life.