1. Better Health. No Hassles. ALCOHOLISM Chronic disease that makes your body dependent on alcohol. Unable to control how much you drink !! Causing problems with relationships, health, work and finances. Alcohol abuse: you have a problem, but do not display all the characteristics of alcoholism. You have not lost control and are not dependent Alcoholism is treatable: medications, counseling, self-help groups can help.

2. Better Health. No Hassles. SYMPTOMS Drinking alone or in secret Unable to limit amount Not remembering conversations “blacking out” Losing interest in activities and hobbies Feeling a need or compulsion to drink Gulping drinks, ordering double’s, becoming intoxicated intentionally to feel good !! Legal problems, employment problems, finances, relationships Building tolerance Withdrawal nausea, sweating and shaking

3. Better Health. No Hassles. ARE YOU ABUSING OR DEPENDENT? Do you need a drink as soon as you get up? Eye-opener. Do you feel guilty about your drinking? Do you think that you need to cut back? Are you annoyed when your drinking habits are criticized? If yes to 2 or more, likely you have a problem. If 1 yes may indicate a problem.

4. Better Health. No Hassles. CAUSES Drinking alters chemical balance in your brain. Raises levels of dopamine, which is associated with the pleasurable effects Excessive, long-term drinking can deplete or increase levels of these chemicals, causing alcohol craving to restore good feelings or to avoid negative feelings. Genetics Emotional state Psychological factors. Depression low self esteem Social and cultural factors.”It’s cool to drink”

5. Better Health. No Hassles. RISK FACTORS Men >15 drinks a week Women >12 increases risk of dependence. Age: earlier age increases risk. Genetics Sex: men at higher risk Family history Emotional disorders: anxiety/depression

6. Better Health. No Hassles. COMPLICATIONS Liver disorders Gastrointestinal problems Heart problems:heart muscle damage Diabetes Sexual problems Birth defects Bone loss Neurologic problems Cancer risk!!!!

7. Better Health. No Hassles. TREATMENTS. Treatment programs Detoxification and withdrawal duration 4-7 days taking sedating medications to prevent withdrawal symptoms Medical assessment and treatment. Related problems are high blood pressure, increase blood sugar, liver and heart disease Psychological support and psychiatric treatment. Group and individual counseling Emphasis on acceptance and abstinence

8. Better Health. No Hassles. DRUG TREATMENT Antabuse: If you drink you get nauseated, vomit and get headaches. Naltrexone: Blocks the high, reduces urge. Campral: Anti-craving.

9. Better Health. No Hassles. PREVENTION Knowing family history Early intervention especially in teenagers. Teens who drink are engaging in risky behavior Teenager signs: no interest in activities or hobbies. Blood shot eyes, slurred speech and memory lapses. Difficulties in relationships joining a new crowd. Poor grades. Mood swings Parents need to set good example.

10. Better Health. No Hassles. COPING AND SUPPORT ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 12 STEPS AL-ANON MADD