Alcohol misuse includes heavy drinking, that is, drinking over the recommended limits; harmful drinking, where the amount of alcohol consumed is affecting the health of the individual; and dependent drinking, where the individual feels they cannot function without alcohol. Alcohol is both psychologically and physically addictive.
People can drink too much alcohol because they are suffering from other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or stress. Or they may become depressed, anxious or stressed because of their level of alcohol consumption, which is a depressant in its own right, and may be caused by other factors from social pressures to life changes such as bereavement, divorce or redundancy.
Alcohol dependence can lead to an individual neglecting other activities, both social and work related. It can also lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety when alcohol use is stopped for any period of time. Another symptom can be the increasing amounts of alcohol needed in order to feel the effects – called tolerance.
Treatment options depend on your alcohol use. If you are drinking hazardous or harmful amounts of alcohol, talking therapy sessions and support networks will be able to help you reduce your intake, or abstain completely. Attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous is frequently helpful.
If you are alcohol dependent, you will need a more intense period of detoxification and are likely to be prescribed medication as well as undertaking talking therapies.
If you are suffering from depression alongside your alcohol problems, it is important to treat the alcohol problem first and then tackle the depression if it does not improve after you have overcome your alcohol misuse.
Alcohol misuse refers to drinking in a way that causes harm to your health, relationships, or responsibilities. This includes regularly drinking more than the recommended limits, using alcohol to cope with stress or emotions, or being unable to stop drinking despite negative consequences.
Common signs include drinking more than intended, feeling unable to cut down, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, needing more alcohol to feel the same effects (tolerance), and neglecting responsibilities or relationships because of alcohol use.
Alcohol misuse increases the risk of liver disease, heart problems, depression, anxiety, memory issues, and certain types of cancer. It can also contribute to accidents, injuries, and long-term cognitive decline.
Yes. Many people recover through outpatient support such as talking therapies, counselling, and peer support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. However, those who are alcohol dependent may require supervised detox and medical treatment as part of recovery.
It’s generally recommended to treat alcohol misuse first. Alcohol is a depressant and may be worsening your mood. Once drinking is reduced or stopped, symptoms of depression often improve. If not, targeted treatment for depression can then be explored.
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