Q&A: Problem drinking

Many people find alcohol too seductive

Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy has admitted seeking help to cope with a drink problem.

It is a difficulty he shares with many people across the UK.

What is problem drinking?

Any level of alcohol consumption that causes harm to the drinker, their family, or society in general.

It is estimated that a quarter of men and one in six women in Britain fall into this category.

Not all people with a drink problem are dependent on alcohol.

Those who are feel an over-powering need to drink every day, and if they do not they experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

It is estimated that about two in 100 women and about seven in 100 men in the UK are alcohol dependent.

Why do people find alcohol so seductive?

In the short-term, a drink, or several, can help to relieve stress and anxiety, and induce a state of relaxation.

However, it is important to remember that this is only a short-term effect.

What damage can alcohol cause?

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH? Government guidelines state that men should drink no more than three to four units per day and women no more than two to three units per day A unit is eight grams of pure alcohol This is equal to about half a pint of ordinary-strength beer, or a small glass of wine

Abusing alcohol in the long-term is associated with a long list of health problems.

These include liver failure, high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, certain types of cancer and stomach ulcers.

It can also have a devastating impact on the nervous system, destroying brain cells, and raising the risk of epilepsy.

Excessive drinking has also been linked to:

• Vitamin deficiency
• Obesity
• Sexual problems
• Infertility
• Muscle disease
• Skin problems

In addition, people with chronic alcohol dependence are often malnourished.

What about psychological effects?

Drinking too much can increase anxiety and depression.

It is also linked to problems with sleeping, mood swings, violence, and even an increased risk of suicide.

How can problem drinking be treated?

The first, crucial step must be for a person to admit that they have a problem.

Too often people who drink too much kid themselves there is nothing wrong, and that they can control their consumption.

Once that first step is made it is estimated that about one in three people can curb their excesses without any professional help.

For those who need help, counselling and advice from a health professional can do the trick.

Sometimes it might be necessary to talk to a specially trained counsellor, who can formulate a plan of action.

Another option is a 'talking therapy' such as cognitive behaviour therapy.

In extreme circumstances, doctors may consider a short course of medicine to prevent the withdrawal symptoms associated with coming off drink - this is known as a detoxification programme.

Another option for severe cases is treatment with one of two drugs:

Disulfiram: Causes very unpleasant effects if even a small amount of alcohol is consumed.

Acamprosate: Influences transmitters in the brain and reduces the craving for alcohol. It may have side-effects such as headache, diarrhoea and rash.