Alcoholism — Dr. Rameez Shaikh
Alcoholism is a long-term addiction illness in which a person becomes physically and psychologically dependent on alcohol. Individuals with this disorder are unable to regulate how much they drink and frequently suffer catastrophic repercussions as a result of their drinking. Some people may not be classified as alcoholics, but they can suffer from alcohol abuse, which means they consume alcohol excessively but are not completely dependent on it. Both illnesses are significant and necessitate long-term treatment to return to a regular, fully functioning lifestyle.
Alcoholism’s Causes
Alcoholism and alcohol abuse can both develop over time due to a variety of circumstances. Some patients, such as those with a family history of alcoholism, may be genetically susceptible to acquire these disorders. Alcoholism can develop as a result of high stress and anxiety levels, low self-esteem, or despair in many people. Additional factors that may contribute to the development of alcoholism include:
1.Drinking that is consistent and increases with time
2.People who start drinking at a young age are more likely to develop alcoholism later in life.
3.Cultural and social elements
4.Certain Mental Health Condition like Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
5. Combining booze and prescription drugs.
Alcoholism Symptoms
Dr. Rameez Shaikh, MD says that the most important thing which we look into patient of alcoholism is presence of insight which is awareness about the drinking problems.
Many alcoholics deny that they have a problem with alcohol. Although friends and relatives may be aware of certain symptoms of this disorder, not everyone who drinks excessively is an alcoholic. The following are signs of alcoholism or alcohol abuse:
Drinking alone.
Drinking that is out of control.
Blacking out on a regular basis.
Feeling a need to drink.
Loss of interest in hobbies or other activities.
When you don’t drink, you have withdrawal symptoms.
Drinking in secret or hiding it.
Keeping alcohol at work or in the car
Becoming intoxicated to feel good
Alcoholism Treatment
Dr. Rameez Shaikh, MD Consultant Psychiatrist and Deaddiction Specialist says that “The goals of alcoholism treatment vary, but they always aim to assist the person quit misusing alcohol, live an alcohol-free lifestyle, and maintain a functioning family and career life. “
The first step in successful treatment of alcoholism often begins when the individual admits that they have a problem and need help.
Treatment options vary according on the individual, as well as characteristics such as alcoholism, physical health and medical history, age, and lifestyle. The following are some of the most common alcoholism treatment options:
Counseling (MET)
Alcoholics Anonymous
Aversion therapy
Detoxification
Intervention
Medication
Spiritual Practise
