Emotional Components of Alcoholism

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Many individuals focus almost totally on the physical aspects of alcoholism such as blackouts, "the shakes," and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit drinking.

There is another aspect of alcohol dependency, however, that is perhaps as difficult to cope with as the physical symptoms, namely the emotional components of alcoholism.

The Dangers of Psychological Addiction

Psychological addiction occurs when the cravings for a drug are psychological or emotional. People who are psychologically addicted feel overcome by the desire to have a drug.

These feelings are so strong that in many instances psychologically addicted individuals will do almost anything for their next "fix" including lying, stealing, and in some instances, killing.

Many times people abuse drugs or alcohol in order to have "fun" or to get a "buzz."  Many individuals, in fact, report that having a few drinks makes them feel more comfortable in social situations.

The danger with continuing such a drinking pattern, however, is this:  repeated alcohol abuse can result in alcohol addiction.

When person is addicted, he or she no longer takes drugs or alcohol to have fun or to get high.  Rather, the addicted person needs the drugs or alcohol in order to function on a daily basis. 

Many times, the addicted person's everyday life centers around satisfying the need for the substance he or she is hooked on.

Psychological Signals Indicating Alcohol Addiction

Psychological signs that you or someone you know may have a drug or alcohol addiction include the following:

• solitary drinking
• use of drugs or alcohol as a way to forget problems or to "mellow out"
• blaming other for one's problems
• anti-social behavior
• withdrawal or keeping secrets from friends and family
• loss of interest in activities that used to be important
• changes in friendships, such as associating only with friends who drink or use drugs
• a preoccupation with figuring out how to get alcohol or drugs
• failed attempts to stop drinking or taking drugs
• anger, anxiety, or depression
• unexplained mood swings  

Emotional Components of Alcoholism:  Conclusion

Emotional Components of Alcoholism.  Regrettably, the "buzz" and the "high" that were so pleasant during the early days of drinking in many instances change into a need to drink in order to make it through the day.  When an individual experiences this kind of "loss of control," he or she may not only suffer from physical symptoms of alcohol dependence such as "the shakes" and blackouts but also emotional components of alcoholism.

More specifically, many individuals who are alcohol dependent experience a psychological craving for alcohol that manifests itself as an overwhelming desire to drink.  These cravings can be so intense that in many instances psychologically and physically addicted individuals will do almost anything for their next "fix" including lying, stealing, and other types of crime.

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