When we think about overcoming an addiction, we often think of drug addiction; however, alcohol addiction is just as dangerous and even more rampant.   It touches every age group from young teens, adults, and even the elderly.  No one sets out to become an alcoholic, just as no one sets out to be an drug addict, but consist use over an extended period of time eventually conditions the brain to need the alcohol.  There are several early -warning factors that can help you recognize if you could be at risk.

One of the first, most common factors is genetics.  If your parent or grandparent or other members of your family are alcoholics, there is a good chance you could become one also.  There are genetic factors that can make you more vulnerable to alcoholism than someone outside of your family

Your emotional state can also affect your likelihood of alcohol abuse.   If you rely on alcohol during stressful or high emotional situations, that can create dependence in those circumstances.  Also, physiological factors such as low self-esteem or depression can lead to excessive drinking; especially in a group setting.

Peer pressure is a leading factor for young people to drink excessively. Through games and competitions, teens and young adults are often encouraged to keep increase the amount of alcohol they are consuming.

There are several signs that you, or someone you love, may be abusing alcohol.  Drinking alone or in secret, loss of interest in family or hobbies, increasing the amount consumed, blacking out, and irritability are just a few of the symptoms associated with alcoholism.

If you or someone you love is abusing alcohol than the important thing to do is encourage them to seek help, perhaps even through an alcohol drug intervention.  Whether they only require addiction treatment or the more involved dual diagnosis treatment, help is out there.

Risk Factors of Alcoholism is a post from: DJ Trava

Related posts:

1. Drinking Among the Elderly
2. Hydration