ALCOHOL.
I have taken an interest in following the career path of a student who first interviewed me for a magazine article when he was just fourteen years old. Since then he completed high school. In his graduating year he worked at the local newspaper office. He is now enrolled in a Journalism degree program at a nearby University. This kid has a lot of potential. However, I was very concerned when I read posts on his Face book page saying he has been using alcohol since starting university, something he successfully avoided up until his high school graduation. He claims he has found his tolerance level and feels comfortable with drinking.
I thought about him as I studied for my Addiction Studies Certificate. I can’t help but to wonder if he realizes the risks of becoming involved in the use of alcohol. Does he know he has a “tiger by the tail”.
In this post I will profile this “tiger,” (alcohol). It is the most popular and widely used drug and is considered to be the oldest known sedative/hypnotic and intoxicant. Traditionally it is used as an aesthetic, sedative and sleep inducing properties, religious and celebratory occasions and recreation.
The degree of intoxication from alcohol depend on consumption during a single drinking episode. The early effects of this Central Nervous System depressant is known to elevate activity and disinhibition after 1-3 drinks. Increased doses can cause drowsiness, stupor, coma and death. Other known effects include, blackouts, violence, psychiatric effects. Long term use causes alcoholic dementia, damage to the peripheral nervous system characterized by loss of feeling in the feet and may be accompanied by burning pain and overall difficulty in walking. Cardiovascular damage can occur as it increases blood pressure and interferes in blood clotting increasing the risk of stroke. Gastrointestinal damage occurs from irritation of the stomach’s lining from alcohol. It also increases the risk of cancer. Alcoholics have a high admission rate to psychiatric hospitals and 6 times higher suicide rate than the population average.
Tolerance varies with individuals. Physical dependence is indicated by tolerance and/or withdrawal caused by abstinence. When use is stopped abruptly withdrawal symptoms likely to be experienced include, sweating, racing pulse, tremors, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, agitation and anxiety. More severe symptoms are seizures, delirium tremens (DTs). Withdrawal can be treated in a hospital or detox facility.
Quite a “tiger”
Until Next Time
Blessings!
Pastor Harold
