How Does Alcoholism Affect a Family?
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From individual to families
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Alcoholism may sometimes seem like an individual's problem, but it can also impact families because of the different effects that alcohol can have on an individual. People with alcohol problems may act out of character when under the influence. Some alcoholics become so violent and irritable that they can be a danger to other people that they live with. The alcoholic also will not be able to fulfill various roles (husband, father, employee) if he spends a lot of time drinking alcohol. Family members then spend their time and effort trying to help the alcoholic, which may take a toll on them. This can destroy relationships.
How to combat
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It is best to combat the problem by having the alcoholic seek treatment himself. Some turn to their primary psychologist to express what they're feeling, and others use a rehab center or join a group such as Alcoholics Anonymous. There is an Al-Anon Family Group geared towards fighting the disease together. The best thing is to support the person seeking help by making treatment a family effort. The alcoholic will realize the need to curb alcoholism because he now feels like part of a bigger effort to promote change.
Another way for families to cope with alcoholism is to learn more about the disease. By understanding the disease, one can gain a broader perspective and understand the alcoholic. This can be done by talking to other families who are battling this disease as well as reading more about the lives of alcoholics. Families can also set up rules in the house where alcohol is prohibited to discourage children from drinking, especially those who look at their alcoholic parent as a role model.
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What alcoholism affects
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Alcoholism not only affects kids but also marriages. Under the influence, a person may make unsound judgments and commit mistakes that may put a marriage in jeopardy. It can also be an escape for individuals who are in unhappy marriages, and they use alcohol as a tool to block expressing their feelings. By being able to face reality and acknowledge the problem, alcoholics would realize that alcohol can not only change you as a person, it can also make you unhealthy, leading to serious diseases such as liver cancer and stomach problems. Heart disease has been linked to alcoholism, as well as disorders of the nervous system. The more an individual drinks, the more he is at risk. This will require treatment that can be a burden to the family, financially and emotionally.
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