Alcohol addiction is also commonly known as alcoholism and it is a disease which can affect people from various walks of life. Alcoholism is actually a real disease because the dependency on alcohol results in changes to the neurochemistry and brain. This can result in a person suffering from alcohol addiction and not being able to control their actions. Experts and studies have tried to pinpoint or at least narrow down the factors that cause alcohol addiction, but it isn’t the result of a single cause. Instead, behavioral, genetic and psychological factors all contribute to this disease.

The problem with alcohol is that unlike other forms of drug abuse, consumption of alcohol is socially accepted and it is very easily available as well. It’s actually often right at the center of social situations and used for celebrations. This makes it difficult to determine the difference between a person who likes to enjoy a few drinks sometimes, with someone who has a real problem because of it.

What are the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction?
Unlike other forms of drug addiction like heroin or cocaine, alcohol addiction isn’t easy to recognize. So, some symptoms of the same are:

• An increase in alcohol consumption or frequency of consumption
• An increased quantity or frequency of use
• High tolerance for alcohol
• Participating in risky endeavors which can cause harm to themselves and/or others.
• Drinking at very inappropriate times and inappropriate places. This can include drinking in the morning or places where drinking is frowned upon- like places of worship.
• Only being present in a social ceremony or function when alcohol is there and avoiding when it’s not.
• A visible change in the people you associate with. People with alcohol addiction will prefer being with people who are also addicted rather than others who forego drinking heavily or start nagging them about their habits.
• Change in relationships is also seen as addicts will avoid contacting loved ones and prolonged addiction will also cause their relationships to fail.
• Hiding when consuming alcohol.
• Feeling lethargic, depressed or suffering from other emotional issues.
• Memory loss as a result of alcohol consumption is a sign of alcoholism because it means the person has drunk enough to induce temporary amnesia.
• The lack of care regarding personal hygiene and prioritizing alcohol more than basic hygiene.
• Affecting their professional life as alcoholism can result in loss of jobs or inability to hold down a job.

Alcoholism can gradually result in a bevy of problems, which include ulcers, bone loss, diabetes complications, vision problems, sexual problems, and others. Alcohol addiction tends to get worse with time but it is important to not shame the victims or make them feel guilty for it as the reasons for alcohol addiction can vary and social isolation can make the condition worse. It is important to look for the early signs so that they can be identified and treated early so that the major consequences can be avoided.