What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is an addiction to alcohol. Alcoholism or alcohol dependence is a debilitating and progressive condition, consisting of physical dependency and psychological compulsion.

Alcoholism, which is also known as ‘alcohol dependence syndrome’ is an illness that is characterised by the following elements.

• Craving, a strong need or compulsion to d rink
• Loss of control, the frequent inability to stop drinking once started
• Tolerance, the need for increasing amounts of alcohol to feel any effect
• Psychological compulsion to drink, an inability to control the desire to drink even though a decision may have been made to stop drinking.

Approximately one in ten of the population of the UK suffers from this illness.  The effect, not only on the individual but on families, the workplace and society as a whole can be devastating.

It is no wonder then that alcohol dependence can cause health problems, family breakdown and loss of career or job. The effect of alcohol on even ‘normal’ drinkers can be extreme, for example:

• Loss of inhibition
• Changes in judgment
• Loss of memory
• Loss of co-ordination
• Mood swings
• Emotional dysfunction
• Changes in perception and understanding
• Low mood

Alcohol Dependence

If you are dependent you may have a strong desire for alcohol.  On some occasions the desire may be overwhelming.  You may have great difficulty in controlling your drinking.  You may have no intention of getting drunk but wake up the next morning wondering how it happened again. 

Your body can become so used to large amounts of alcohol that you start to develop ‘withdrawal’ symptoms 3 – 8 hours after your last drink as the effect of the alcohol wears off.  Some people will drink to stave off these symptoms.

Treatment for Alcohol Problems

The Linwood Group's private, residential alcoholism treatment centre are located in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, offering help and assistance to people with alcoholism and alcohol abuse problems. We offer residential alcoholism treatment and alcohol detox programmes.

Call Now for Free, Expert Advice Call now on 0800 066 4173 for advice in complete confidentiality or use our online enquiry form. Alternatively if you are calling from a mobile phone or from overseas, call 01226 698 054.