Alcohol Problems

Alcohol affects nearly every organ in the body. Alcohol intoxication causes loss of coordination and can lead to car accidents, other injuries (falls, broken bones, and head injuries), and risky behavior (such as unsafe sex).

Alcohol intoxication can be severe enough to cause poisoning and death from too much alcohol. Short-term health effects from alcohol abuse can include sexual problems, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, periods of depression, and high blood pressure.

Why ?

Heavy drinking over many years increases the risk for serious health problems including alcohol-related liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis,) heart disease, stomach problems, brain damage, cancer, and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). These diseases can be very painful and many can lead to long-term disability and even death.

The Procedure of ?

After you’ve set your goals to either stop or cut back your drinking, write down some ideas on how you can help yourself accomplish these goals.

• Get rid of temptations. Remove all alcohol, barware, and other alcohol-related paraphernalia from your home and office.
• Announce your goal. Let friends, family members, and co-workers know that you’re trying to stop or cut back on drinking. If they drink, ask them to support your recovery by not doing so in front of you.
• Be upfront about your new limits. Make it clear that drinking will not be allowed in your home and that you may not be able to attend events where alcohol is being served.
• Avoid bad influences. Distance yourself from people who don’t support your efforts to stop drinking or respect the limits you’ve set. This may mean giving up certain friends and social connections.