Alcoholism
A dependency or addiction to drugs, alcohol or prescribed medication is referred to in
psychiatry as a substance abuse disorder. While alcohol use is common in Australia it
can be a serious problem for some, causing problems with their health, financial
situation, as well as personal and professional relationships.
If you or your loved ones feel that your alcohol use is excessive, you feel the
temptation to drink a lot, or you feel unwell when you don't drink (withdrawal) you may
suffer from alcoholism. A person can drink regularly (for example a small glass of wine
with dinner) without being an alcoholic, however it can be problematic if done to
excess.
Signs of alcohol abuse may include:
• Not being able to limit the amount of alcohol you consume
• Becoming tolerant so you need to drink more to get intoxicated
• Binge drinking - drinking to excess in a single session
• Feeling a need to drink as often as possible
• Intentionally drinking to affect your mood
• Having legal or financial strife in relation to your drinking
• Not remembering conversations or events after drinking
Symptoms of possible alcohol overdose include:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shallow breathing
• Cold, clammy skin
• Weak, rapid pulse
• Coma or possible death