It is estimated that there are 602,391 dependent drinkers in the England, however the number of daily drinkers are increasing over the years. Addiction to alcohol is usually overlooked by drinkers regarding it as the ‘safer’ alternative when compared to tobacco, cocaine and heroine however excessive indulgence can damage the human heart and increase the risk of being diagnosed with high blood pressure or experiencing a stroke in future years. Short term effects of drinking alcohol include an alteration in mood, energy levels and concentration, however it can also cause serious long-term damage to the liver and brain.

 

It is easier for teenagers to become addicted to alcohol than any other age group as teenage years are the prime years for development, sculpturing the brain to consider alcohol as a necessity rather than a drink to be erratically and occasionally consumed. It has been found that the damage from alcohol-related cirrhosis is irreversible, therefore may cause fatal liver failure. The liver is a principal organ in the human body, used to remove toxins from the intestine, regulate your blood sugar levels and protect you from infections. It is vital to limit how much you consume and how often you consume to avoid any potential danger to your health. Alcohol is a depressant, meaning it slows down activity in the brain while triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. The majority of alcohol consumers, use alcohol for either pleasure or as an escape from reality, however there are many alternative ways to obtain inner peace and tranquillity.

 

Alcoholism resides as one of the major factors which causes financial hardship to people, therefore excessive drinking can affect your financial status as well as your health. To avoid damage to finance, body and brain, limiting your intake is essential. It is stated that 1/3 of all divorce appeals in England include the abuse of alcohol by one partner, therefore consuming alcohol daily can negatively impact not only the drinker, but others around them. Needless to say, attempting to satisfy and honour oneself is a behavioural trait of humankind which is acceptable if we are attentive regarding the quantity we indulge in.

 

By Sukhpreet Jagdeo