Alcohol addiction

Alcohol addiction is a significant issue in the UK, leading to thousands of deaths each year—8,974 in 2020 alone. It not only devastates the lives of those affected but also causes harm to their loved ones. 

Alcohol addiction may be characterized by any of the following symptoms: 

• Regularly drinking more than 14 units per week for women or 21 units for men. 
• Consuming alcohol at inappropriate times or in dangerous situations, such as at work, while caring for children, or before driving. 
• Being preoccupied with alcohol, with daily life revolving around drinking. 
• Using alcohol to relieve stress or cope with emotions. 
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, or insomnia, when not drinking regularly. 

Alcoholism increases the risk of various health problems, including: 

• Liver disease: Conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer. 
• Head and neck cancers. 
• Diabetes. 
• Korsakoff's syndrome: An irreversible memory disorder caused by brain cell damage. 
• Alcohol poisoning: Consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short time can lead to dangerously high blood alcohol levels. 

Beyond physical health risks, alcohol addiction can cause significant psychological and social harm. Relationships with family and friends may suffer due to behaviors associated with addiction, such as dishonesty, theft, violence, and other antisocial actions. 

Alcohol detoxification often involves behavioral therapy, but medication may also be prescribed to help people withdraw safely. Common treatments include: 

• Antabuse (disulfiram): This drug causes unpleasant symptoms if alcohol is consumed, discouraging drinking. 
• Campral (acamprosate): This medication helps reduce the craving for alcohol.