Alcoholism

Excessive alcohol consumption, like substance dependence, harms mental and physical functions. An alcohol-dependent person spends most of the day thinking about, finding, obtaining, and using alcohol. Often, the individual denies the problems caused by their dependence.

Signs of addiction include:

• Irresistible craving for alcohol
• Impulsivity, reduced self-control
• Psychological and physical withdrawal syndrome
• Increased tolerance
• Unsuccessful attempts to quit drinking independently
• Abstinence syndrome

When an alcohol-dependent person stops drinking, the following symptoms may appear:

Within 6-12 hours:

• Anxiety
• Trembling of hands
• Shaking of the body
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Insomnia
• Irritability

Within 12-48 hours:

• Rapid heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Increased breathing rate
• Severe mood swings
• Decreased concentration
• Hallucinations
• Possible seizures

Within 48-72 hours:

• Alcohol delirium (delirium tremens) may develop:
• High fever
• High blood pressure
• Acute psycho-physical agitation
• Hallucinations (visual, auditory, tactile)
• Delusions
• Altered consciousness

The severity of symptoms is determined by:

• Type of alcohol
• The daily amount of alcohol
• Duration of consumption
• The general physical condition of the individual
• Individual factors

Closely related to mental health problems such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Increased risk of suicide
• Psychosis...