Loss of control over alcohol dosage, reduced periods of abstinence, and tolerance to high doses of alcohol indicate dependence. This was told socialbites.ca by Alexander Polikarpov, a psychotherapist, psychiatrist-narcologist, head doctor of the AlkoSpas clinic.
“A person ceases to control the amount of alcohol they drink, which leads to negative consequences for the body, this is already a sign of alcohol addiction,” he warned.
The increase in alcohol consumption and the use of stronger drinks is also an alarming signal, according to the doctor.
“Tolerance to large volumes of drink, switching from light alcoholic beverages to strong drinks, indicates that tolerance has arisen, the body “gets used” to processing ethyl alcohol frequently and in increasing amounts, explained the narcologist.
The doctor noted that the decrease in the time between alcohol intake was also an alarm.
“They drink first on holidays, then on weekends or just to relax. The person is looking for a reason to drink and tries to involve other people in it. This leads to the spread of alcoholism, ”warned the narcologist.
Polikarpov reminded that alcohol is toxic to humans in any amount.
“According to the WHO, the permissible dose of alcohol contains up to 50-60 ml of ethanol per day, this is, for example, 0.5 liters of wine. However, it should be understood that there is no safe dose. Any kind of alcohol creates addiction over time and harms the body,” he warned.
According to the doctor, if you suspect the formation of addiction, you should seek medical help.
“You can not miss these signs, because the development of the disease leads to deterioration of the condition, excessive drinking, violation of the norms of social behavior. You can contact a psychologist who will help you understand the essence of the problem and motivate you for treatment, ”Polikarpov advised.
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