What is Alcohol Dependence?

Numerous research papers have proven that alcohol dependence is the most prevalent addiction amongst the Canadian population. The overwhelming availability of alcohol along with a commonplace acceptance of social drinking in our society results in many people developing alcohol dependence.

The destructive nature of alcohol dependence is so powerful that even when certain social, financial, and other consequences outweigh the benefits of drinking alcohol, an addicted person simply can not stop drinking, and thus needs much needed help in the form of therapy. Let us look closely now at the warning signs, symptoms and treatment options for those struggling with alcohol dependence.   

Alcohol Dependence Defined

Alcohol dependence is defined as a substance use disorder where a person is physically and or psychologically dependent on drinking alcohol on a regular basis. The common use of alcohol by Canadians is highlighted by the Canadian Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey from 2015 which found some 22.7 million (77 per cent) of Canadians reported having an alcoholic drink. This study also found that more men (11.8 million or 81 per cent) than women (10.9 million or 73 percent) reported alcohol abuse. 

A concerning fact is also the prevalence of alcohol abuse amongst our young adults and youth. The above mentioned study found that in 2015, young adults aged 20 to 24 had the highest rate of alcohol use (83 per cent). And in addition, alcohol use was reported by 59 per cent of youth aged 15 to 19, and 78 per cent of adults aged 25 or older.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

There are clear warning signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence for those struggling with this condition. In most cases this includes the following:

• Not being able to control or quit drinking, even when one wants to stop.
• Needing to drink more to get the same effect.
• Spending a lot of time recovering from drinking.
• Having withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. 

If left untreated, alcohol dependence can pose very serious health problems which are associated with the following health risks:

• Affects the proper functioning of the brain. Those dependent on alcohol have significant difficulty in thinking, communicating with others, and operating motor vehicles safely.
• Causes significant psychological problems such as depression, a high rate of anxiety, irritability, and a high rate of suicide. This is most troubling; alcohol dependent people are six times more likely to commit suicide compared to the general population. 

Help Is Out There: A Sobering Thought

With time, our social attitudes towards alcohol dependence are changing from blaming a person’s addictive behaviour to finding the proper treatment options for them. From the outset, a doctor’s emphasis is to reduce the dependence on alcohol to the point where those addicted can live without this debilitating disease. The most common treatment options for alcohol dependence include the following: 

• Residential treatment at recovery and rehabilitation centres. 
• Medication therapy.
• Individual and group therapy.
• Self help and support groups, this includes family support. 

If you or a family member is struggling to cope with alcohol dependence, please fill out our form to begin your path to recovery.