ALCOHOL

Alcohol instantly and rapidly affects every organ in the body from the moment the first drink is taken.  There is a difference between a social drinker and an alcoholic.  A social drinker can stop, an alcoholic cannot.  Alcoholism is a progressive disease.  Although symptoms vary, alcoholism leads to uncontrollable drinking habits.  No single cause has been pinpointed, although heredity and physiological factors are thought to play a role.

Alcoholism is an addiction (dependence) marked by the need to increase doses to produce the desired effect.  The body becomes dependent on alcohol to function normally.  There is also a withdrawal syndrome when alcohol is not taken.

While alcoholism can be effectively treated, there is no miracle cure.  The first step is to admit that a problem exists and for the individual to want and accept the need for help.  Medical help and counseling are available from a variety of available sources.  Check the local yellow pages for listings under "Alcoholism" or call our referral line at (918) 622-5669.

 

 

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