Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that affects the health, well-being and relationships of individuals. It is a complex disorder that is often triggered by environmental and biological factors, including genetics, a persons family history of drinking problems, and certain psychological traits such as impulsivity and low self-esteem. Drinking can also be used as a way to cope with difficult feelings, such as depression or stress.

People with a mild problem may only experience trouble with their drinking for a short period of time, but those who suffer from a severe alcohol addiction will likely continue to have issues with it long after theyve cut back or stopped altogether. This is because continued use of alcohol triggers changes in the basal ganglia, which can lead to habit formation and ultimately, compulsive drinking.

Some common warning signs of a problem with drinking include forgetting or lying about your drinking, avoiding friends or family when you are intoxicated, spending more time on alcohol than you do other activities, or drinking at times or places that are inappropriate or unsafe for your age or condition. You may also find that you need to drink more than you normally do in order to achieve the same effects. You may also be having trouble with memory blackouts, or experience withdrawal symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, shakiness, sweating, nausea, feelings of illness and/or anxiety, dysphoria, and/or irritability.

A serious drinking problem can also cause legal or medical problems, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, getting arrested for drunk and disorderly conduct or mixing prescription medication with alcohol against a doctors orders. These situations can be very dangerous, not only for the person who is drinking, but also for those around them.

Many people with an alcohol addiction will have a strong desire to quit or cut down their drinking. However, they will have a hard time doing it because they spend so much time and energy on it. They will likely have few if any hobbies or social engagements that dont involve alcohol. They will probably be unable to concentrate on work or school, and will feel restless or bored without the use of alcohol.

Once a loved one agrees to seek help for their alcohol problem, its important to support them through the process. This might mean that you have to lovingly disconnect from them while they go through treatment, but this will allow them the time and space they need to do the hard work of recovery. In addition, a spouse or significant other who has an active role in their recovery can help educate them about different goals and routes to change that will appeal to them. This will increase their chances of success. For example, there are mutual-support groups that provide a safe place to discuss drinking problems with others. These are available in most communities at low or no cost, and meet at a variety of times and locations.