Abusing alcohol may have negative consequences in relationships, at work, in school, at home or in other aspects of daily life. Alcohol abuse may lead to a DUI (Driving Under the Influence), which may lead to further legal problems. This harmful habit may also lead to an alcoholic dependence called alcoholism. In alcoholism, the body may develop a mental or physical desire to drink. Alcoholics may crave alcohol as it may come to control or influence many aspects of life.

Symptoms or problems associated with alcohol abuse may include a craving and desire to consume alcohol, as well as the need to consume more and more alcohol to achieve the same effect. Abusers of alcohol may not be able to control the amount of alcohol they drink and may find it difficult to quit drinking. Alcoholics may go through withdrawals if alcohol is not consumed.

Those going through withdrawals may experience stomach pains, shakiness, anxiety and sweating. Alcoholics continue to abuse alcohol despite the negative consequences drinking may have had on their lives. Physicians may diagnose alcohol abuse and perform a mental health assessment to test for signs of alcohol abuse, dependence, or other physical signs of alcohol abuse such as cirrhosis.

Treatment for alcohol abuse may depend on how severe the alcohol abuse has become. Some alcohol abusers may find success with the help of a therapist or counselor, while others may require other forms of treatments.

More severe abusers may be advised to go through a detoxification process before beginning treatment. Alcoholics dependent on alcohol require a detox treatment and may also be offered treatment for withdrawals while detoxing. Upon completion of a detoxification process, some recovering alcoholics may focus on sobriety through the help of group therapy and/or medication.

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