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One of the significant reasons why alcohol abuse seems to be more prevalent is the fact that it is a socially acceptable drink. It is easier to have people think it is normal when most people still suffer from alcohol addiction. The overuse of alcohol in events and social gatherings may seem ordinary, but it is dangerous for people susceptible to addiction.
Unfortunately, alcoholism goes hand in hand with cultural preferences. Most rehab centers, including Mallard Detox, probably admit most addicts because of alcohol. This leaves one wondering why alcohol seems socially more acceptable than other drugs.
The Impact of Alcohol on the Body and Mind
Alcohol hurts the brain and body. It affects the communication pathways and alters the nervous response by affecting the behaviors and moods of users. Long-term drinking leads to even more severe conditions such as wet brain syndrome or Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. This potentially fatal condition is mainly characterized by severe loss of memory, confusion, and lack of balance. It also leads to heightened anxiety and depression, especially with habitual misuse.
The heart is also negatively impacted when one over-consumes alcohol. Usually, victims struggle with conditions such as stroke, irregular heartbeat, and cardiomyopathy. Besides the heart, the other primary organ likely to be damaged is the liver. Excessive consumption of alcohol leads to fatty liver and liver cancers.
Alcohol can also lead to fibrosis and alcoholic hepatitis. Overall, due to its addictive nature, alcohol leads to a weakened immune system and makes the body susceptible to diseases. This explains why chronic alcoholics struggle with certain conditions, such as tuberculosis.
What the Society Sys About Alcohol and Drugs
It is unfortunate that despite the severe risks that come with alcohol consumption, many people are unable to appreciate the dangers it poses. The fact that it is a socially acceptable drink has pushed many people into more in-depth addiction than any other drug.
Another drug that seems to gain societal acceptance is marijuana. Even so, alcohol remains the leading socially acceptable. Unfortunately, this does not make the effects any less severe. They include:
- Miscarriage
- Sexual assault
- Motor vehicle crashes and other accidents
- High blood pressure
- Mental health problems
- Diabetes, stroke, and liver disease
- Social problems
Knowing when to Get Help
The fact that alcohol is readily and easily available socially makes it very easy to cause addiction. You can tell when alcohol starts taking charge of your life. However, if you slowly become controlled by the drink and cannot function without it, you should consider getting support to overcome the addiction.
Find a facility that appreciates the unique challenges of alcohol addiction and talk to them about your struggles. Mallard Detox is always ready and willing to hold your hand through this phase. Call us whenever you are ready to begin your journey to sobriety.
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