Happy New Year! That phrase will ring throughout the world as we celebrate and look forward to a upcoming and prosperous New Year. I find it striking about the number of articles that have been written this week about curing the big hangover that accompanies this celebration. Does this celebration mask our overdependence to alcohol? Addictions are most commonly associated with drug and alcohol addiction, however the principle is millions of people suffer from all kinds of addictions.
Some of these addictions are related to some form of chemical dependency such as alcohol, controlled substances and even prescription medicines. Other addictions are related to compulsive types of behavior such as gambling, shopping, food disorders an even the Internet.
One of the most necessary things to pinpoint about any type of addiction, regardless of whether it is a chemical addiction or a behavioral addiction; is that it is not a matter of choice. Individuals who are addicts do not have the faculty to easily select to stop abusing their 'drug' of choice. Addictions affect not only the user, but also their family and friends as well.
So what is an addiction?
How does it begin and when does a pattern of behavior become an addiction? Some individuals seem to have the expertise to use a substance or engage in a behavior periodically over a period of years without becoming 'hooked.' Others; however are not capable of stopping and become addicted.
Addictions affect all social and educational groups. There is no typical addict.
The causes of addiction have been studied for several years. In bountious ways, addiction is caused by the emotion the substance or behavior brings about in the user. The body and mind become dependent on that feeling and seeks to maintain it.
There are addiction risk considerations that make some people more likely than others to become addicts. Studies show that sometimes addictions can be hereditary. The child of an alcoholic may not grow up to be an alcoholic, however, they may become addicted to gambling or some other type of compulsive behavior as an adult.
Besides hereditary, individuals who grow up in families with abuse, neglect and who are impoverished are more likely to become addicts.
For most addicts, it can be extremely laborious to recognize that what they have associated with as candidly a habit is actually an addiction. While every individual varies there are some signs that are habitual among most addicts and addictions:
Symptom # 1
Unable to meet responsibilities at home, school or office.
Symptom # 2
Continues to use substances or engage in behavior even when it puts them in jeopardy.
Symptom # 3
The need increases to engage in behavior or use numerous amounts of a substance to obtain the same ramification or feeling.
Symptom # 4
Has tried but failed to stop using the substance or end the behavior.
Symptom # 5
Continues to engage in the behavior or use the substances even when they are cognizant of the dangers.
Answering yes to three or more of the above conditions during a 12 month period may show that you or a loved one has an addiction. The number one step to treating an addiction is recognizing that it exists.
There is no cure for an addiction. Treatment and counseling can lend a helping hand to an addict to show how to manipulate their behavior, withstand impulses and pinpoint the presence of a headache, but an addict is never cured. Treating an addiction can take years and requires ongoing support from friends, families and support groups.
A 12 step program can be particularly healthful in treating an addiction. One of the most well known 12 step programs is AA, also known as Alcoholics Anonymous; however there are similar programs for all types of addictions.
Living with an addiction requires a once daily commitment and there is always the possibility of relapsing. An addict that has been "pure" for even 20 years can succumb to temptation just as they did decades before.
There are several treatment programs and centers that can help with the numerous types of addictions that are extensive today. Many of them are anonymous. Support groups are also applicable to a helping hand family and friends who encounter the effects of an addiction in a loved one.
Related Articles
The Mixed Messages in our Society About Drinking Alcohol
By: Denny Soinski | 18/01/2007 | Diseases and Conditions
This article discusses an important factor in the reasons why people in our society abuse alcohol. In short, this message needs to be heard!
Alcohol Detox Can Kill You. Here's Why
By: Christin Shire | 09/10/2007 | Health
Although we don’t often consider alcohol to be as dangerous as drugs such as heroin or cocaine, the detox off of alcohol is actually the most dangerous, and can even kill you. Find out how to go through detox safely, and comfortably.
Alcohol Rehab? What to Do When Grandma Drinks?
By: Christin Shire | 09/10/2007 | Health
As adults transition into young old age, they are again at an increased risk for alcohol abuse and alcoholism. Unfortunately, the effects of alcohol on older adults are magnified, and the risks to health and welfare increased. Older adults respond very well to treatment, and letting them continue to drink is never a kindness.
Women: When Your Partner Drinks Too Much
By: Edward Wilson | 25/07/2007 | Health
Your partner is drinking too much and you don't know what to do? Here's the answer.
Alcoholism; 7 Signs That you Need Alcohol Rehab
By: John Lee | 09/10/2007 | Health
There is a big difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism, and the treatment requirements for the two distinct problems differ greatly. Take a look at these seven signs of alcoholism, and if you see yourself in three or more, you are likely addicted to alcohol.
After a Dui; Treatment Can Help you Get Better, and Stay Out of Jail
By: Christin Shire | 09/10/2007 | Health
A DUI can cause you significant legal problems, but perhaps more worrisome are the use behaviors that allowed for the occurrence of the DUI. If you can use a DUI as a catalyst for personal change and the betterment of an abuse problem, your arrest may be the best thing that ever happened to you. Help yourself with needed treatment, and as you do it, show the judge your commitment to change.
Alcohol and Alcohol Beverages
By: Nandeshori Devi Konthoujam | 08/08/2006 | Health
Alcohol is a colorless impulsive combustible liquid, synthesized by fermentation of starches and sugars. The chemical formula of alcohol is C2H5OH.
The War on College Alcohol Abuse
By: Denny Soinski | 10/01/2007 | Health
More education is not the only solution or the only weapon that can be successfully used in the battle against college drug and alcohol abuse. Various proactive and reactive measures, most of which are not education-based, are listed that compliment educational approaches in the war on college drug and alcohol abuse.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
By: jeff | 21-07-2008
Can a person consume alcohol in excess while ...
By: Billie Jo | 20-07-2008
can a person consume alcohol in excess while useing humira?
Underage drinkers
By: sheryl | 20-07-2008
what is the law for a 21 year old going to a party with 20 year olds, stopped on the side of the road, police stop, find alcohol. the 21 year is is cited for providing alcohol to underage drinkers.
Unopened bottles of beer in a commercial vehical
By: mr. Mullins | 18-07-2008
I am a truck driver with a commercial drivers liscense,I have encountered a truck search request from west virginia stat police and had unopened beer bottles in my sleeper part in the cabinet concelled.I refused to allow the search and they let me go.I read the D.O.T. book and find only information on testing and consumpion abuse,but nothing on or about having unopened bottles in a commercial vehical. Where can i get an answer conclusivly about having it in my truck?
I need to loose15 to 20 lbs by October. Is this ...
By: Olga Geske | 16-07-2008
I need to loose15 to 20 lbs by October. Is this
withis in reason,. I seam to have lost my willpower
Accurate alcohol testing
By: Lane | 16-07-2008
We have a family member who is subject to periodic random alcohol testing.
In hopes of keeping him clean and out of trouble we purchased a high quality tester, but even when we are sure he has been drinking he tests OK. We sent the unit back and tried another with same results. How is he fooling us? We are desparate to help him.
Q&A Powered by:
More from Hamza Davis
Will Adding Calcium Carbonate Improve My Diet?
By: Hamza Davis | 16/01/2008 | Health
An increasing number of health care professionals don't see the need for supplements of vitamins and minerals, but it is possible to become deficient in these building blocks for the human body when we are under the stress of illness, pregnancy or aging. Children can often eat junk foods to fill their bellies and miss out on their once daily nutritional requirements.
Can I Pass My Kidney Stones Please?
By: Hamza Davis | 11/01/2008 | Health
Several diseases are the eventuality of the accumulation of toxic materials in the body. Unnecessary accumulation of waste materials indicates the poor health of excretory organs.
Are the Myths About Skin Cancer Valid?
By: Hamza Davis | 06/01/2008 | Health
We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer?
How Can I Diagnose Prostate Cancer?
By: Hamza Davis | 02/01/2008 | Health
Most importantly, if you suspect any prostate problems get to a physician for an evaluation as soon as possible. Do not wait. Make a prostate evaluation a part of your yearly physical exam.
Buying the Right Exercise Bikes and not Looking Like an Idiot
By: Hamza Davis | 08/12/2007 | Fitness
Sometimes going to the gym is just not convenient. We have to work, take care of the kids and do the various chores that require us to live in a modern world. Unfortunately today's engrossed situation can really take a toll on your health. We all know that we need to take the time to exercise but where do we actually find that time? A resolution is to gain exercise equipment for your home.
What's the Contrast Between Good Fats and Bad Fats?
By: Hamza Davis | 26/11/2007 | Fitness
As bad as saturated fats are for our health, Trans fats are even worse.
Acid Reflux Disease and Treatments for Acid Reflux
By: Hamza Davis | 23/11/2007 | Fitness
Acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a fairly common affliction. It is characterized by bouts of intense heartburn or a burning sensation in the back of the throat.
Understanding the Zenith 42 Plasma Hdtv
By: Hamza Davis | 20/11/2007 | Technology
Zenith 42 Plasma HDTV sets, also known as plasma HDTV displays have been obtainable for several years; however, they are more popular than ever today.
Health 
