If alcoholism runs in your family, you may find yourself wondering about what causes alcoholism and how is it treated. This is a disorder in which an individual consistently drinks too much alcoholic beverages, and is unable to abstain from drinking. Often this can affect work, social, and family life, and can even have some negative health effects, such as liver disease.
In North America, it is considered socially acceptable to drink in moderation, especially at social gatherings or celebrations. The average quantity consumed by men, when drinking moderately, is two drinks, while for women it is one. This constitutes 1 1/5 oz of hard liquor, 5 oz of wine, or 12 oz of beer, due to the varying percentages of alcohol in each beverage. Four or more drinks in one evening is considered excessive, and if this behavior is constant, it could lead to alcoholism.
Biology and Emotions:
Alcoholism is not caused by any one thing, although genetics has been linked to the disorder. If someone in your family tree has had a problem with alcoholism in the past, you may be at greater risk of becoming an alcoholic. Another factor which has been linked to alcoholism is socioeconomic standing. Those below the poverty line, are more likely to over-imbibe, although alcoholism is not restricted to those with low socioeconomic status.
Emotions can also play a part in a person drinking too much alcohol, as anger, anxiety, and sadness have been known to make individuals more likely to drink heavily for long periods of time. Celebrations are cause for drinking alcohol, but they tend to last only one day or one evening, while depression can last weeks at a time and influence a person to engage in excessive drinking.
Treatment for Alcoholism:
It's important to know what causes alcoholism and how is it treated to avoid relapse following sobriety Treatment will vary depending on the severity and the personal needs of the individual. The most popular method of treatment is in-house rehabilitation, which provides a safe, alcohol-free environment in which to stay, detoxify, and heal. These rehabilitation centers are equipped with medical staff, quiet space for reflection, and professional therapists. Off-site rehabilitation centers also exist, through which alcoholics can receive treatment, but don't live on-site. Both methods work, but the most successful rehabilitation are those which receive follow-up treatment once the session is over and goals are met.
There are medications available to treat alcoholism, four of which are approved for use in the United States. Two of the drugs are naltrexone based. They work by decreasing cravings by blocking endorphins during alcohol consumption, making it far less appealing to drink. Disulfiram is also available. It causes sensations of a hangover to occur whenever alcohol is consumed. It creates such negative feelings that the drinker will no longer associate alcohol with good feelings. Finally, acamprosate is used to reduce sensations of withdrawal and stabilize neurotransmitters which cause high levels of NDMA activity in the brain during cravings.
Before considering any medications or therapies, ask your doctor what causes alcoholism and how is it treated. Each case is different, and your physician may suggest something specific based on the severity of your condition.