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Alcoholism is a disease, alcoholism is inherited, and alcoholism is treatable*. If alcoholism has taken over your life, then you may only be concerned with this last fact. Alcoholism may have you in its grips when you cannot quit because the cravings are too strong. Once you start drinking, alcoholism takes over and you cannot control the amounts you drink. If you are able to stop for a brief while, alcoholism reminders like nausea, sweating, "the shakes" and anxiety set in until you feel you must drink again to "feel well". Perhaps you've noticed that it takes much more alcohol to get you drunk as your tolerance has increased dramatically.

The cravings, loss of control, withdrawal symptoms and tolerance are the four symptoms of the disease of alcoholism as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. Other physical consequences of alcoholism include cirrhosis of the liver, cognitive dysfunction, chemical imbalance leading to depression and increased risk of cancer.

Is alcoholism inherited? Yes. Scientists have shown that having an alcoholic relative puts the drinker at a higher risk of developing alcoholism. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism nearly 1 in 13 Americans abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. That's nearly 14 million people! No wonder you hear about "rehab" so much!

In either case, having an alcoholic in the family is not required to being an alcoholic, environment, accessibility to alcohol, friends and peer pressure all contribute as well. The bottom line is that if you continue to drink despite the reoccurrence of serious negative consequences, you may suffer from alcoholism. If you cannot stop on your own no matter how times or different methods you've tried, you may be an alcoholic.

Have you done any of these things as a result of drinking too much?

1. missed work
2. fought with the spouse
3. missed a commitment with the kids
4. felt guilty or ashamed of drinking
5. drink in the morning to feel better
6. been violent or been a victim of violence
7. suffered a "blackout" and don't recall large blocks of time

These can be serious symptoms of alcoholism and should be treated immediately. At Dr. Paul's at the Bay we treat the "whole" patient. We offer multi- day and week in-patient and out-patient treatment programs. Individual and group counseling is available along with counseling for loved ones if needed.

On the beautiful coast of St. Pete Beach, Florida, we've created a peaceful, calm atmosphere where you can find effective treatment for your alcoholism. Many insurances and court mandates are accepted if that is your need and we specialize in the client who wishes to stop drinking and address the reasons for drinking. There is no need for you to suffer one day longer. Call us for a consultation today.

* Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Scientific Communications Branch