These are some basics about alcohol dependence or abuse.
- Alcoholism or Alcohol Abuse is a progressive disease like Diabetes. It cannot be cured, only treated with ongoing support, AA and relapse prevention.
- Denial or about severity of impairment or underestimating quantity or effects alcohol is a common
- Downplaying the negative consequences of drinking minimizes the impact on self and family
- Blame or complaining that family and friends are exaggerating
- Using alcohol to “relax” with increased frequency and amounts
- Recurrent use of alcohol in situations that are physically hazardous (driving)
- Continued use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance
- Blackouts
- Arguments and losing emotional control
- Hangovers, missing work and not attending to the demand of life