Alcohol misuse
Overview
Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that's harmful, or when you're dependent on alcohol. To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, both men and women are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week.
Symptoms
Symptoms include: inability to limit alcohol consumption; strong cravings or urges to drink; spending significant time drinking or recovering; failing to meet obligations at work, school, or home; continuing to drink despite problems; giving up activities to drink; using alcohol in unsafe situations; developing tolerance; withdrawal symptoms like nausea, sweating, and shaking; changes in eating patterns; loss of interest in hobbies; isolation from friends and family.
Causes
Caused by genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Risk factors: steady drinking over time; starting at early age; family history (40-60% genetic vulnerability); mental health problems like depression and anxiety; brain's reward system releasing dopamine driving repeated behavior.
Treatment
Treatment includes: medically managed detoxification (2-7 days); medications (Disulfiram, Naltrexone, Acamprosate, Nalmefene); psychological counseling including CBT; individual and group therapy; learning coping skills; support groups like AA; residential treatment for serious cases.
Prevention
Prevention: don't drink more than 14 units per week; spread drinking over 3+ days; have alcohol-free days; avoid alcohol if pregnant; be aware of family history risks.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: you drink too much; drinking causes problems; family is concerned; you feel guilty about drinking; you need morning drinks; drinking is uncontrolled. GP can use AUDIT screening test.