🍷 Alcohol dependence

Alcohol dependence is an illness in which a person cannot stop drinking even when alcohol harms them. It is not a weakness of character or just a habit. Alcohol changes how the brain works, and it becomes hard to control how much and when one drinks.

Signs include a strong craving for alcohol, inability to stop, growing amounts, feeling unwell without a drink, and worsening work, study and relationships. Dependence harms the liver, heart, nervous system and mind. It needs medical help. It is treated with therapy, medication, support from loved ones and mutual-help groups. The earlier a person asks for help, the better the result.

Alcohol dependence belongs to the topic of alcohol and health. There is no safe amount of alcohol for health, and the risk grows with quantity. If you or someone close faces this problem, contact a doctor or a helpline. This text is for reference and does not replace advice from a specialist.