Statistics claim that there are between 10 and 14 million alcoholics in America. Many more adults and even teens engage in risky drinking habits that could lead to more serious problems. How do you know if you or someone you love has a problem with alcohol? If someone's drinking has caused you concern, if their drinking has made you think that that they might have a problem with alcohol, the chances are good that they do.

What are the symptoms of an Alcoholic?

> Cravings: The person has a strong need, or a compulsion, to drink alcohol.

> Loss of control: The person is unable to stop drinking once they have started.

> Physically dependent: When alcohol use is stopped, withdrawal symptoms may occur, these include nausea, sweating, shakiness (especially the hands), and anxiety. The symptoms are usually relieved by drinking more alcohol.

> Alcohol Tolerance: The person has an increasing need for higher amounts of alcohol to feel the same effects as they felt with previous usage.

Alcoholism is not necessarily determined by what kind of alcohol the person consumes or how much of it, or even how long the person has been abusing alcohol. The major factor in Alcoholism is the person's uncontrollable need for alcohol.

What are the signs that someone is an alcoholic?

> They drinking alone or in secret.

> They don't remember conversations or appointments.

> They make a habit of drinking at unusual times (early mornings) or at times they shouldn't and they get annoyed or angry if this ritual is interrupted or questioned.

> They seem to be losing interest in activities and hobbies that they used to enjoy.

> Irritability as usual drinking time nears, especially if alcohol isn't available.

> Having hiding places for their alcohol in places at home, at work or in the car.

> Gulping drinks or ordering doubles, wanting more and more alcohol.

> Intentionally becoming intoxicated to feel good or to forget their problems.

> Having problems in their relationships with friends and family, problems at work or with finances or legal problems as a result of their drinking.

Why won't the alcoholic just stop drinking?

Alcoholics cannot just stop drinking. Their need for alcohol is as physical as your need for food and water. When the alcohol consumption is stopped, they can have very severe withdrawal symptoms, some severe enough to require hospitalization. This, of course, is usually for the very severe alcoholics who drink a great amount of alcohol.

Very few alcoholics are able to stop drinking on their own. Most require help from Alcoholic Anonymous or another support group, or a detoxification treatment center.

What kind of treatments are available?

There are several types of treatment available for alcohol abusers. The type of treatment that is best for the individual will depend on how severe the person's alcoholism is and the treatments that are available in their community. Many professionals recommend more than one type of simultaneous treatments.

> Detoxification: The patient is monitored by a doctor while they go through detox, letting the alcohol leave their system. Sometimes medications are prescribed to help with withdrawal symptoms and to help relieve the cravings for alcohol.

> Individual and/or group counseling.: There are many types of individual and group counseling aimed to help the recovering alcoholic. These can be provided in hospitals, treatment centers, or on an outpatient basis.

What is Alcoholics Anonymous ?

Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA, describes itself as a "worldwide fellowship of men and women who help each other to stay sober." AA is basically a support group made up of alcoholics, to help and guide each other to obtaining and maintaining sobriety. AA alone does not work for everyone, alcoholics are also encouraged to seek other methods of treatment, including counseling and medical treatments, in addition to the support provided by AA.

Is There a Cure?

No, there is no cure for alcoholism, however, there is treatment. Once a person is an alcoholic, they are an alcoholic for life, even if they never take another drink. Even if the alcoholic has remained sober for many years, they will remain susceptible to relapses and therefore should avoid the use of any alcoholic beverages.

Many alcoholics will suffer several relapses while trying to achieve sobriety. Relapses are very common and do not mean that the person will never be sober, it just means that they have to try again, and take one day at a time.

Where can I get help?

If you think you have a problem with alcohol, contact your local Alcoholics Anonymous center for support. If someone you love has a problem with drinking, urge them to seek help with AA. For those whose loved ones have a problem with alcohol, Al-Anon is a support group for the family members of alcoholics.