The Dangers of Alcohol Abuse

 

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has been warning people about the dangers of this legal substance for many years. One of reasons that addiction to alcohol is difficult for many to see is that it can be purchased legally by anyone over the age of twenty-one.

 Many who drink to excess would never consider becoming involved in illegal drugs and have a hard time seeing that their addiction is just as damaging. Alcohol abuse often begins with people partying on the weekends while in college or after first moving away from their parent's home. These people are frequently able to function with school and work for many years.

Some restrict their heavy alcohol consumption to the weekends or at times when it will not interfere with normal activities. After time, most begin to curb this partying and settle into a healthier routine, limiting consumption to a few drinks on holidays or special occasions. 

However, there are those who are unable to reduce the amount of alcohol they drink and find themselves drinking on a daily basis just to feel normal. It may be having a few drinks while on lunch break becomes necessary just to make it through until the end of the work day. Some even slam a few before work, thinking the "hair of the dog" will take the edge off of a hangover and allow them to function better during the workday. 

Alcohol abuse statistics show that these folks will generally continue to drink heavily until some sort of intervention is employed. Friends, family, and coworkers may need to gather and lovingly but, firmly, point out the problem and their concerns. Ideally, this will lead the troubled drinker to seek help through a qualified rehabilitation center. This can give them a chance to move forward with a productive life.