What happens when a person becomes an alcoholic?

Affects on the Brain When someone consumes alcohol, the alcohol changes the balance of chemicals, such as dopamine, in their brain. Alcohol is a depressant, often making it most attractive to people who suffer from psychological problems such as high stress, low self-esteem, or depression.

What is the life of an alcoholic?

A population-based register study including all patients admitted to hospitals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder from 1987 to 2006 in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, People hospitalized with alcohol use disorder have an average life expectancy of 47–53 years (men) and 50–58 years (women) and die 24–28 years earlier

How do you know if youre considered an alcoholic?

A doctor will diagnose alcoholism when three or more of the following have been present together in the past year1: An overwhelming desire to drink. An inability to stop or to control harmful drinking. Withdrawal symptoms when stopping drinking.

What is alcoholism and its effects?

Alcohol interferes with the brains communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works. These disruptions can change mood and behavior, and make it harder to think clearly and move with coordination.