|
Alcohol is
a drink that contains
ethanol, a type of alcohol produced by fermentation of
grains, fruits, or other sources of sugar. It causes
intoxication. Depending on the amount consumed determines
the affect. Having a nice martini after work for happy hour
with friends can be enjoyable. Unfortunately, after
consuming a bottle or two of vodka and some beers will not
only wreak havoc on your liver it impairs your ability to
function, think clearly, make some not so good choices and
wake up with a massive hangover.
Alcohol-related disorders according to the diagnostic
and statistical manual 5 (DSM-5) which is used for medical
providers to diagnose, list criterion for one to be
diagnosed. Of the 11 criteria two must be met in a 12-
month period. Most common criteria is alcohol taken in
larger amounts over a longer period of time than intended,
craving or a strong desire or urge to use alcohol, continued
use despite having persistent or recurrent social or
interpersonal issues (DUI’s, domestic violence, loss of
employment), building a tolerance with needing more alcohol
to get the desired effects and withdrawal (anxiety,
insomnia, increased hand tremor, nausea or vomiting or
sweating and high pulse rate greater than 100 beats per
minute.)
Alcohol consumption can be enjoyable or it can become
your hell. Take a mental health moment to ask yourself
which it is for you. There are reasons why consumption of
alcohol is framed with legal age limits and legalities for
safe quantities consumed while driving. It’s not illegal to
drink alcohol over the age of 21 and while some religions
regard alcohol a sin or assign moral issues, it is a
personal choice and between the drinker and God, after all
Jesus did turn water into wine.
If you or you know someone with a possible alcohol-use
disorder seek help immediately but understand one has to
want to stop consuming alcohol first and it certainly won’t
happen overnight just don’t give up and be supportive.
Bernadette
Graham is a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor,
National Certified Counselor and Certified Grief Recovery
Specialist. Provide feedback or reach out at
graham.bernadette@gmail.com For appointment information
please call 419.409.4929 (Telehealth is available for
ongoing and new clients at this time as well as in person
appointments available on Tuesdays and Fridays only). Office
location is 3454 Oak Alley Ct. Suite 300 Toledo, OH 43606
www.bjgrahamcounseling.com
|
