How Can I Cope With My Alcohol Abuse Problem ?

Alcohol abuse can be tough to determine in this day and age. It seems like every 20-something is binge drinking on the weekends. Perhaps it's just a rite of passage? Likewise, it seems like all your coworkers are slamming back a few brews after work to let loose. Where does one draw the line between normal and excessive alcohol consumption?

While tolerance levels vary, the general rule is that you're drinking too much if you're a woman who has more than 7 drinks per week or more than 3 drinks per occasion, if you're a man who has more than 14 drinks per week or more than four drinks per occasion, or if you're over 65 having more than 7 drinks per week or more than 3 drinks per occasion.

Can problem drinkers simply cut down on alcohol consumption to combat their abuse of it? The answer to this popular question all depends upon the individual. For the most successful recovery from alcoholism, abstinence is really the only cure.

On the other hand, people who have experienced drinking related problems, but aren't actually alcohol dependent, may be able to cut back on their own. Before hitting "rock bottom," it's recommended that the drinkers stop covering up their alcohol consumption, read information on alcoholism to assess the situation and avoid situations where it will be involved.

Some of the physical symptoms of alcohol abuse emerge over time in some of the more advanced stages. Common symptoms include "the shakes," nausea, nervousness, anxiety, sweating and depression. Often there is a loss of appetite and the individual needs to drink more and more to sustain a buzz.

Cravings may drive the person to drinking alcohol every weekend or even every day. Delirium Tremens (DTs) is the ultimate manifestation of severe alcohol abuse, with the drinker suffering hallucinations, nausea, agitation, confusion, the shakes and panic attacks from alcohol related withdrawal. In 5-15% of these cases, the person may die unless treated by a medical professional.

The good news is that people with addictions can be treated if they're willing to accept help. For the most severe recovering alcoholic, alcohol abuse can be treated with drugs that will reduce cravings and elevate mood levels. Scientists say alcoholism is perpetuated by imbalances of neurotransmitters and brain chemicals that leave a person feeling unsatisfied without alcoholic drink.

Some drugs include Campral, Vivitrex, Naltrexone and Antabuse. It's highly recommended that the recovering alcoholic also undergo behavioral therapy or attend the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program as well.