| Alcoholism is a disorder that has made million of | | | | likely to offer help. They have resources to trained |
| individuals dependent on alcohol. It starts with the | | | | counselors who know about alcoholism and support |
| feel-good effect after losing your inhibitions to alcohol, | | | | groups with similar problems. |
| then next thing you know, one is addicted to this | | | | Cut back: In severe cases, complete withdrawal can |
| surreal state of euphoria. Alcoholism should stop for its | | | | do more harm than good. Most experts' advice is to |
| obvious effects to the body. Yes, it can be treated. No | | | | gradually allow the body to retreat from alcohol. Cutting |
| one ever said it was easy, but it can be done. | | | | back on alcohol intake is the first step on quitting |
| Fundamental to the treatment of alcoholism is | | | | drinking. Keep track of your alcohol intake: quantity and |
| managing the body's withdrawal from this substance | | | | frequency. Then set a goal of slowly reducing your |
| abuse. Since this is a feat not meant for overnight | | | | intakes. Pace yourself when you drink and never drink |
| success, small changes can make a big difference in | | | | with an empty stomach. Alcohol is slowly absorbed by |
| reducing your chances of having alcohol-related | | | | your system when you have had something to eat. |
| problems. Here are some strategies to try: | | | | Plan ahead: Don't let your mind remain idle. Develop |
| Getting help: It starts by admitting you have a problem | | | | interests that don't involve alcohol like a new hobby or |
| and you need help. Talk to someone about it, be it a | | | | sports. Avoid people, places, and occasions that will |
| family member or a friend. You shouldn't be alone with | | | | obviously serve alcohol and may trigger your drinking. |
| this because then it will be easier to slip back to | | | | Learn to say "no, thanks" when you're offered an |
| depression when you do not have a support system. | | | | alcoholic drink. And should the inevitable happen, |
| There are organizations that specially facilitate | | | | always have an intervention plan on what you will do if |
| alcoholism therapies. | | | | you have an urge to drink. |
| Talk to an expert: An expert can be a doctor or a | | | | Remember that it is important to stay healthy for the |
| counselor. He or she may be able to give you sound | | | | fun things in life: birth of a child, a long awaited trip or a |
| advice about treatments. There might be a prescription | | | | holiday party. While alcoholics can be a nuisance, they |
| medicine that will work for you. Check your local health | | | | are actually crying for help. |
| department or social services agencies as they are | | | | |