The Dark Side of Drinking

Alcohol consumption is widespread, with 82% of adults in England reporting having consumed alcohol in the past year, and 49% drinking at least once a week. Despite the prevalence, there are numerous misconceptions and stigmas surrounding alcohol addiction.

Societal attitudes frequently blame individuals for their addiction rather than the reality that societal and genetic influences play a huge part in the determination of whether or not a person is susceptible to prolonged use.

Alcohol addiction

Alcohol addiction is a type of alcohol use disorder (AUD), which includes a spectrum of drinking problems from harmful drinking to dependence. Unlike casual drinking, where individuals consume alcohol socially or occasionally without significant repercussions, addiction involves a compulsive need to drink, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped.

The physical aspects of alcohol dependency include:

• Increased tolerance, where more alcohol is needed to achieve the same effects
• Withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sweating, and nausea when not drinking

Over time, heavy drinking can lead to severe health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and various cancers. Psychologically, dependency can cause a significant impact on mental health, often leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders.

In the UK, alcohol addiction remains a pressing public health issue. It is estimated that over 600,000 people in England are dependent drinkers. The number of alcohol-related hospital admissions has steadily increased, highlighting the widespread impact of excessive drinking. In 2019, there were over 350,000 hospital admissions related to alcohol consumption. Furthermore, alcohol-related deaths accounted for approximately 1.4% of all deaths in England and Wales in recent years, with liver disease being a leading cause of these deaths.

Common myths about alcohol addiction

We will now address the most common misconceptions about alcohol use and misuse:

“Alcohol addiction is a lack of willpower”

Addiction is a disease influenced by biological and psychological factors. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, with certain genes affecting how individuals metabolise alcohol and their susceptibility to addiction. Psychological factors, including stress, trauma, and mental health disorders, also contribute to the development of alcohol dependency. Changes in brain chemistry caused by repeated alcohol consumption alter the brain’s reward system, making it increasingly difficult to resist the urge to drink.

“Only heavy drinkers become addicted”

In reality, addiction can develop even in those who drink moderately over time. The process of addiction often begins subtly, with individuals drinking socially or for relaxation. Over time, the body builds a tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effects, which can lead to dependence and addiction. This gradual escalation can happen to anyone, regardless of their initial drinking habits.

“You can quit drinking anytime you want”

Quitting alcohol is often a challenge due to withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild anxiety and shakiness to severe complications like seizures and delirium tremens. The discomfort and potential danger of withdrawal frequently require medical supervision and support, making quitting a daunting task without professional help.

“Alcoholics can’t hold down jobs”

Many individuals with alcohol addiction are “functioning alcoholics” who manage to sustain their professional and personal lives while battling their addiction. These individuals may excel in their careers and maintain seemingly stable lives, but they still face the same risks and health consequences associated with alcohol addiction.

Alcohol detox

Alcohol detox is the process of allowing the body to rid itself of alcohol while managing withdrawal symptoms. The process can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, including seizures and delirium tremens (DTs), which can be life-threatening if not properly managed.

A formal process normally includes an initial assessment to create a treatment plan, tailored to the individual’s needs based on their medical history, level of alcohol dependence, and co-occurring conditions. This individualised care is essential for optimising the detox process and enhancing recovery outcomes. Medications are also used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, making medical supervision indispensable to prevent misuse and ensure appropriate management.

Self-detox, on the other hand, can be quite dangerous due to the unpredictability of withdrawal symptoms. Without medical oversight, individuals are at higher risk for severe complications, relapse, and potential harm.

In the UK, private rehab and detox centres play a role by offering environments where individuals receive care.

How we can help

People suffering from alcohol addiction and are in need of help within the UK should consider reaching out to Banbury Lodge for support. We provide care tailored to your needs, offering a range of treatment options including detoxification, rehab, and therapy.

Don’t let alcohol keep you in the dark, contact us today.