Alcohol Abuse Advice

When we accept that alcoholism is an illness, we have only put a label on the problem. However, trying to understand what drives the human being behind a vague term like a definition of an alcoholic, and getting an idea as to why addicts behave the way they do could create a shift in the general attitude of denial by society.

Why do people feel ashamed and the need to cover up their problems?

Society is sending out mixed messages. We do not approve of alcoholics who cannot control their drinking. They are regarded as weak, not part of civil society. At the same time there is a culture of being made to feel guilty for not joining in the drinking. You are called a bore and in general people would argue that ‘one drink won’t hurt’.

But we have totally surpassed that ‘one drink’ culture. Binge drinking has become socially acceptable and despite regular coverage in the media about the dangers of alcohol abuse we are bombarded with images of healthy looking people having a fantastic time with friends whilst having a drink. Guests on talk shows are offered an alcoholic drink, television series often have scenes taking place in pubs, advertisements sell alcohol as a lifestyle choice and supermarkets frequently sell alcohol next to the basic necessities to survive, like vegetables and dairy products.

People with an alcohol problem are often too afraid to confide in anybody about their problems because they have been made to feel that they are the odd one out; that they cannot handle something that everybody else can handle perfectly well.

How can we create a shift in the general perception of society? It is important for those affected to know that they are not an exception. The moment someone with an alcohol problem realises that there are numerous people who find themselves or have found themselves in their very same situation they can let go of their shame and get help. That recognition is a powerful tool for people to set aside their shame and denial and to talk openly about their ordeals.

Younger people especially should be made aware of the dangers of alcohol abuse. An addict is not necessarily a person who has lost everything. They might still have jobs, families and friends. It would be a strong message if those affected by alcoholism, either as a direct sufferer or as a partner, family member or friend of an alcoholic would speak out and share their experiences. Also the drinks industry should take responsibility and stop targeting young people with alcoholic drinks that are disguised as soft drinks.

Then maybe, just maybe, we can slowly change society’s definition of an alcoholic from one of harsh judgement to one of compassion and understanding.

Comedy With a Message

Convincing young airmen on the risks and dangers of alcohol abuse can be a challenge. One man has found a way to inspire with humor.

 

Insight: African alcohol binge raises pressure for crackdown
Filed under: dangers of alcohol abuse

Higher alcohol taxes, which the South African bill is likely to impose, risk of pushing the poor back to potentially lethal home-brews. Nevertheless, public health officials say governments need to do more to warn about the dangers of alcohol abuse.
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The dangers of internet addiction
Filed under: dangers of alcohol abuse

“Families and Soldiers, in particular, need to be warned [about internet addiction], because this type of addiction is more common than alcohol addiction and there is no way of knowing it!” said Cooper. “So many people may be affected without realizing …
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Dangers of abusing anti-psychotic drug
Filed under: dangers of alcohol abuse

Quetiapine works by correcting the imbalance of chemical substances that act on the brain's nervous system. An overdose of quetiapine can cause a rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. It is particularly dangerous when taken with alcohol. 0. Digg …
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