Advice for alcoholics. If you think you are an alcoholic, you need to go to an AA meeting. The effects of alcohol can alter judgment and can lead to dependency and severe health problems if alcohol is consumed...
The effects of alcohol can alter judgment and can lead to dependency and severe health problems if alcohol is consumed in excess for a long period of time. Alcohol is typically used to enhance the enjoyment of meals by many societies throughout the world. If one likes to enjoy an alcoholic beverage from time to time, then they should consume it only in moderation. If not, one can easily become an alcoholic if they do not have the willpower to say no.
High levels of alcohol intake raise the risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, cancer, automobile accidents, violence, birth defects and many other complications. When drinking alcohol excessively for long durations, cirrhosis of the liver is highly likely. Inflammation of the pancreas, and damage to the brain and heart are very likely as well. Heavy drinkers are also at risk of malnutrition because alcohol contains tons of calories, and gives an alcoholic as sense of fullness.
If a person feels their drinking has gone to a new level and they cannot stop, then help should be sought immediately.
"If you think you are an alcoholic, go to an AA meeting," says Dr. Ally Bloom, a medical director and owner of Pasadena Recovery Center. He is psychiatrist with four years experience in treating alcoholism. "Then seek further treatment if necessary."
Alcoholics Anonymous is an organization made up of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other concerning alcohol. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; the organization is self supported through contributions. The organization is not affiliated with any denomination or political party and does not engage in any controversy, the AA website states. The organization's primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. The website states that millions of men and women have heard or read about the unique fellowship called Alcoholics Anonymous since its founding in 1935. Now, more then two million now call themselves members.
AA is a place where alcoholics can come together and discuss what they are feeling. It is a place where acceptance is welcomed, and a place where they all think the same. "We who are in A.A. came because we finally gave up trying to control our drinking, we still hated to admit we could never drink safely. Then we heard from other members that we were sick and that many people suffered from the same feelings of guilt and loneliness," the organization states.
Once a person acknowledges they're an alcoholic, it is practically impossible they can ever become a social drinker again.
"I don't believe they can because I think their bodies have a craving for alcohol, and as soon as the alcohol hits their brain, the desire for more and more alcohol overwhelms them," says Bloom. "There are occasional cases where people become social drinkers, but statistically it's like playing Russian roulette. It is not a thing I would recommend any alcoholic to every try."
