What is an alcohol addiction

An alcohol addiction is a disorder that is characterized by a recurrent craving for alcohol. When one is (temporarily) not able to consume alcohol, so-called withdrawal symptoms occur, and more and more alcohol is needed to reach the same effect. If you are addicted, it is wise to seek help. 

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol is a substance that, if used often, can lead to an addiction. The definitions of what addiction means may vary, but usually they contain the following aspects:

• The dose of the substance needed to reach the same effect keeps growing. This is also called tolerance or habituation. 
• More than the desired amount of substance is consumed, meaning the user is dependent on the substance. 
• Mental and/or physical withdrawal symptoms occur when the substance isn't used regularly. These are also called detox symptoms and they severely increase the chance of the substance being used again. 

Estimates have shown that about 10% of the Dutch population is a problem drinker, to a greater or lesser extent. 

It usually takes a long time before problem drinkers realize they are walking a dangerous path. A reason for this is that alcohol is a very socially accepted drug, which results in people underestimating the dangers of alcohol. There are some signs that can point to a potential alcohol addiction. 

• You consume several glasses of alcohol every day
• You experience a lot of conflicts with the people in your environment (for example your partner or family members) about your alcohol use
• When you can't drink alcohol for a certain amount of time you experience withdrawal symptoms 
• You need alcohol to conquer your fears and stress or to be able to relax. 

Withdrawal Symptoms

If you are a frequent user of alcohol and you quit cold turkey, chances are that you will experience withdrawal symptoms. Some often mentioned withdrawal symptoms after quitting drinking alcohol are:

• Having difficulty sleeping
• Nausea 
• Excessive sweating
• Queasiness
• Trembling hands
• Hallucinations 

What to do when you're addicted to alcohol?

What you have to do when you suspect you have an alcohol addiction? It is wise to seek help, because quitting on your own is very difficult. There are various organizations and institutions that can help you with your addiction. There are, for example, rehabilitation centers and clinics. There are also so-called detox programs that can help you get through the first, very difficult, period. During this period the most severe withdrawal symptoms occur. 

Sources: www.todio.nl