ALCOHOLISMThe Other side of drinking…

Alcoholism: What is it?

Alcoholism is a progressive disease, in which symptoms only become worse over time. Alcoholism is often described as alcohol dependence syndrome, drinking patterns can include binge drinking and more commonly continual alcohol abuse.

What are some symptoms?

After frequent intoxication, some key symptoms include:

drastic change in demeanor, repeatedly neglecting responsibilities;

with work and family life and experiencing legal problems because of

alcohol consumption.

How do we know when someone we love is suffering from alcoholism?

As alcohol consumption has become such an integral part of the Australian culture, it is difficult to know when a friend or family member is suffering from alcoholism.

Councilor Phillip Milligan of the Mornington Peninsula notes that when the current lifestyle no longer fits the physical, social or family demands, there is a crisis: when admission to the problem  is of more benefit/necessity than denial then we know we have a problem.  

What to do?

Quite often, it depends on the drinker and if they are willing to question their current lifestyle.

Experts across the country believe that the first thing to do is consult your local GP, who can then refer you onto other medical institution.

There are also Alcohol Anonymous groups who meet in most regional towns.