Most Australians will try alcohol at some point in their lives, be it socially, to relax, to alter their mood or to comply with peer pressure. The majority of Aussies drink at levels that have little effect on their day-to-day lives, and continue to be productive members of society.
Alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits contain ethyl alcohol, an ingredient that can cause inebriation and changes in mood and emotions. Unfortunately overindulgence of alcohol can lead to a vast array of health and social problems, both for yourself, your family and the community.
The National Drug Strategy Household Survey released in 2008 indicated that the majority of Australian adults have tried alcohol, and that many will continue to drink throughout their life. Australians have historically had a long relationship with alcohol, and it is not uncommon for most generations of a family to have consumed it.
The study also found that around 90 per cent of adults have tried alcohol in their lifetime, and over 83 per cent have consumed an alcoholic drink in the past 12 months. Drinking is seen by some as a rite of passage, and is used to foster relationships and social occasions.
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and its consumption has both immediate and cumulative effects. Excessive drinking can lead to regular illness, depression, brain damage, cancer, liver and heart disease, erectile and fertility issues, as well as social and financial problems.
Doctors prescribe a range of treatments for excessive alcohol consumption. Options include withdrawal, pharmacotherapy, rehabilitation, counselling, and family, peer and social support.
If you think you have an alcohol problem or are considering reducing your alcoholic intake, you should seek the advice of a health professional. www.doctors.com.au is an online resource that can help you find a doctor nearby that can help.