Alcoholism is a deadly disease. It so main stream media acceptable these days that many don’t even realize the lives lost daily due to this deadly disease. It not only destroys the abuser, but in some instances the entire family unit.
It is a disorder of physical and psychological dependence on alcohol daily or binging on a regular basis. It can be a gradual progression, and the individual is not heeding the warning signs. When the threshold is passed, unfortunately, there is no going back.
Studies have shown individuals that continue to excessively use alcohol tend to have issues such as: anxiety, depression and insomnia. Repeated heavy drinking or a drinking binge that involves a large amount of alcohol in a single instance can lead to an individual having amnesia or otherwise known as a blackout. In these instances they don’t recall anything that occurred. They may seem normal, drunk, but normal to the others around them, but they’re not operating consciously.
This is obviously a dangerous stage because this is where murders, drunk driving accidents, and many more fatal or life changing scenarios can happen. It is important to know the signs of abuse before they become fatal. Screening test questionnaires can attempt to identify pathologic behavior, but unfortunately the person can alter the answers because they feel they do not have a problem.
Ultimately it is up to the individual to recognize they have a problem if they are to get sober and stay sober. There are 12 step programs with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), group therapy, inpatient rehabilitation and many other options. If you suspect yourself or someone you love seek help as soon as possible.