The Evolution of an Alcoholic

Posted on November 28, 2009
Filed Under Addiction, Alcoholism |

man2Alcoholism does not evolve overnight. Rather, it is acquired through time and it passes through different stages. It may be difficult for someone to distinguish these stages when it concerns friends, family members and even ourselves. But by knowing the four stages of alcoholism, you could help yourself, and those who might be under the influence, to quit drinking. But before going through these stages, pointing out the difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse would help us gain the right knowledge. Though both cases entail excessive alcoholic intake, alcohol abusers do not feel the need to drink. On the other hand, alcohol-dependent individuals have an inability to control their drinking and this have made them develop a tolerance for alcohol.

Now that we know the difference, it’s time to go through the stages:

STAGE ONE: Drinking as a means of escape.The Prodromal stage, or the first stage of alcoholism, features a person who drinks to escape reality. He uses alcohol to run away from the fears, pressures and worries of life. In this stage, a person’s tolerance for alcohol is elevated and does not appear to be intoxicated. Gulping, sneaking and refusal to discuss about drinks highlights this early stage of alcoholism.

STAGE TWO: Drinking as a necessity. The Early stage, or stage two, is characterized by a person who has an insatiable desire to drink. He may have intervals of abstinence but ultimately, he will go back to drinking. This desire to drink makes him alcohol-dependent. Because of which, he may display an aggressive behavior and denial of his alcoholic addiction.

STAGE THREE: Uncontrollable drinking. In the third stage or the middle stage, the person has no control over his drinking unlike in the first two stages. This stage is the most evident among all for an alcoholic would start to discontinue his routine and give up on his activities, relationships and hobbies. Though he might incur dents in his relationships or brushes against the law, these would not stop him from drinking.

STAGE FOUR: Dependent drinking. Here in the late stage of alcoholism, a person’s life falls within the total grip of alcohol. He drinks it more often than water. Due to this, the alcoholic often experiences binges, uncontrollable tremor and regular gulping. And because his drinking has gone awry, signs of chronic alcoholism such as brain deterioration, improper judgment and loss of memory and concentration begin to manifest.

Also, a person who is in the fourth stage of alcoholism has a high risk of contacting cirrhosis, heart complications and various cancer ailments.

These four stages would help you discern whether you or someone else is under the spell of alcoholism. Should these symptoms be present in you, do not hesitate to seek evaluation and treatment from qualified medical professionals. Act upon it now before it’s too late.

For more help with alcoholism and addiction please visit www.sobersources.com and visit the many forums for help!

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