ALCOHOLISM: THE DISEASE OF DENIAL

A classic symptom of alcoholism is the alcoholic's refusal to admit that a drinking problem exists. This symptom is known as denial. It is generally present in all people with serious drinking problems. The alcoholic is often unaware that he or she is addicted to alcohol. There are several reasons for this.

In the early stage of alcohol addiction, there is little to indicate that he or she is becoming an alcoholic. Early on, the alcoholic will have a better than average ability to drink without getting noticeably drunk. This reinforces the belief that drinking is not a problem. By the time the alcoholic's behavior and emotional state has become a problem, he or she is already physically addicted to alcohol.

By the middle or late stage of alcoholism, alcohol's toxic effect on the brain may cause irrational behavior. All the person knows is that he or she suffers physically and emotionally when he stops drinking. These withdrawal symptoms indicate a serious addiction.

The alcoholic and others around him will often not realize that alcohol is the root problem at home and work. He will tend to believe that he drinks because of his marital or job problems, instead of seeing that the drinking is causing these problems.

Signs suggestive of a serious drinking problem include:

an alcohol related marital separation or divorce
being fired or laid off for alcohol related problems
drunken driving or other alcohol related arrests or
when alcohol has harmed health, for example, liver disease and vomiting blood

If someone you care about is unable to face his drinking problem, you may need some help and support. Al-Anon is for family and friends whose lives are affected by the alcoholic. For more information, contact your local Al-Anon Chapter or visit their website at www.Al-Anon.org.

To find out more about alcoholism and treatment, contact the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence at (800) NCA-CALL or visit their website at www.ncadd.org. Other resources include your healthcare provider, a school nurse or counselor, Employee Assistance Programs, or contact your local chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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