Emotional Components of Alcoholism

Many people focus almost exclusively on the physical aspects of alcoholism such as withdrawal symptoms, "the shakes," or blackouts when trying to quit drinking.

There is another aspect of alcohol dependency, however, that is perhaps as difficult to cope with as the physical symptoms, namely the emotional components of alcoholism.

And keep in mind that when the term "alcoholism" is used, this also means "alcohol dependency," "alcohol addiction," or "alcohol dependence."

The Dangers of Psychological Addiction

Psychological addiction occurs when the cravings for a drug such as alcohol are psychological or emotional. Individuals who are psychologically addicted feel overcome by the desire to have the drug they are dependent upon.

These feelings are so strong that in many instances psychologically addicted individuals will do almost anything for their next "high" including stealing, lying, and in some instances, killing.

Alcohol Abuse Can Lead To Alcohol Addiction

Many times people abuse drugs or alcohol in order to have "fun" or to get a "buzz."  Many people, in fact, report that having a few drinks makes them feel more comfortable in social situations.  The danger with this pattern of drinking, however is this:  repeated alcohol abuse can result in alcohol addiction.

Drinking In Order to Function

When person is addicted, he or she no longer takes drugs or alcohol to have fun or to get high.  Rather, the addicted person needs the drugs or alcohol in order to function on a daily basis.  In fact, the addicted person's everyday life frequently centers around satisfying the need for the substance they are hooked on.

Psychological Signals Indicating Alcohol Addiction

Psychological signs that you or someone you know may have a drug or alcohol addiction include the following:

• blaming other for one's problems
   
• anger, anxiety, or depression
   
• a preoccupation with figuring out how to get alcohol or drugs
   
• unexplained mood swings
   
• solitary drinking
   
• withdrawal or keeping secrets from friends, co-workers, and family
   
• use of drugs or alcohol as a way to forget problems or to "mellow out"
   
• anti-social behavior
   
• failed attempts to stop drinking or taking drugs
   
• loss of interest in activities that used to be fun or important
   
• changes in friendships, such as associating only with "friends" who drink

Emotional Components of Alcoholism:  Conclusion

Regrettably, the "buzz" and the "high" that were so pleasant during the early days of drinking in many instances change into a need to drink in order to make it through the day.  When an individual experiences this kind of "loss of control," he or she may not only suffer from physical symptoms of alcohol dependence such as "the shakes" and blackouts but also emotional components of alcoholism.

More specifically, many individuals who are alcohol dependent experience a psychological craving for alcohol that manifests itself as an overwhelming desire to drink.  These cravings can be so intense that in many instances psychologically addicted individuals will do almost anything for their next "fix," including most types of crime.

One final point. It is important to underscore the fact that when the term "alcoholism" is used, this also means "alcohol dependence," "alcohol dependency," or "alcohol addiction."

Extra Information

Finding a quality treatment program can be a difficult process.  This is why we are including the following information.

The following toll-free phone number is a number to a call center/treatment center that we are proudly affiliated with. This treatment facility provides top-quality and professional "holistic" drug and alcohol rehab and counseling that addresses virtually every aspect of the person's life.

There is someone at this phone number 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Please call this number if you have questions about a drug or alcohol problem or if you want some information about quality drug or alcohol treatment. (888) 565-2282