Alcohol Abuse in New Britain CT
Alcohol abuse is often a sign of addiction. Alcohol abuse treatment is available to help the person struggling with the condition to deal with the problem before it escalates to a deadly addiction. It is important for people to understand the difference between alcohol abuse and addiction and seek help before it spirals out of control. There are many New Britain drug treatment centers that can help.
We can provide support in your search for the right facility and treatment program for your needs. Call now at 860-357-6096.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse treatment is designed to help those who abuse the substance, as well as those who are true addicts. Determining which category you or your loved one falls into is necessary in finding a treatment option that caters to your unique needs. Some factors that constitute alcohol abuse include:
- Neglecting other responsibilities because of drinking or a hangover
- Consuming alcohol in dangerous situations, such as while you are driving
- Relationship problems due to alcohol consumption
- Drinking to relax or get rid of stress
Not all abusers have an addiction, or require alcoholism treatment. However, it is one of the major risk factors for developing an addiction. Alcoholism treatment is generally required once a person has become dependent on alcohol and is unable to stop drinking alone.
According to the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD), alcohol is the most used substance to cause addiction in the U.S. In fact, one in 12 adults is either abuses, or is addicted to the substance. Many more are binge drinkers, which means drinking in excess. This pattern increases the risk of abuse and possible addiction.
Dangers of Abusing Alcohol
Misuse of alcohol, including abuse and addiction, can cause many short-term and long-term complications. It is one of the leading causes of death, and it also brings on many other health conditions. Some of the most common health problems that occur from heavy alcohol consumption include the following:
- Cardiovascular problems
- Dementia
- Stroke
- Neuropathy
- Liver diseases
- Problems of the intestines
- Injuries such as falls, crashes and drowning
In addition, overuse of alcohol can result in loss of employment, damaged and broken relationships, legal issues and emotional issues such as depression and suicide.
How Abuse Leads to Addiction
Most people do not become alcoholics overnight. It is a process that begins with drinking too often or too much. Even those who get drunk may not be abusers or addicts. However, each step brings you one step closer to engaging in alcohol abuse and developing a dependency.
Oftentimes, people increase their consumption to get a buzz from drinking. They may use alcohol to help them relax or deal with problems. An abuser will increase the frequency as well as the amount consumed. As the body adjusts to the alcohol, it will take more to get the same results. Family members and friends of abusers will notice that the person drinks more often or reaches for a drink during a stressful situation. That person will turn to alcohol and drinking instead of other activities he or she formerly enjoyed. Hangovers are more common, and the person may use alcohol to alleviate the physical results from one.
The Person Abusing Alcohol
Not everyone who goes out with friends and gets drunk is abusing alcohol. It can be difficult to recognize the difference between someone who is simply out to have a good time once in a while and someone who is abusing, at least in the beginning. Genetics is one of the biggest risk factors for people becoming abusers or addicts. If someone in their family had the problem, it increases the likelihood that they will have the same issue. Emotional and mental conditions also increase the chances that someone will engage in alcohol abuse. These could include feelings of depression, anxiety, stress and more.
Regardless of if you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism or is showing early signs, it is important to get help from a qualified treatment center before the disease progresses.
We can provide support in your search for the right facility and treatment program for your needs. Call now at 860-357-6096.