For many of us, alcohol was available in our homes for most of our lives.

People drank alcohol for family gatherings, holidays, and happy events. Alcohol was part of having a good time. Gradually, we all learned that alcohol can be harmful. In fact, we are now told that the maximum amount of alcohol we should have each day, in order to maintain good health, is one drink for women and two for men. In addition, we have learned that alcohol is addictive, so it is hard to cut back or stop.

A very serious effect of drinking alcohol is that one’s judgment is affected. This may apply to social situations when we may say something inappropriate or harmful. An even worse sign of poor judgment is when an accident occurs because a drunk person has decided to drive. Binge drinking is somewhat different from alcoholism. A binge drinker often has 4-5 drinks in a short period of time. Binge drinking is common in people of all ages and can cause the same problems with judgment and safety.

Driving a car while drunk can cause tremendous misery. The driver may be arrested or have his or her license revoked. An accident may cause injury to the drunk driver, passengers in the car, bystanders, or other drivers.

There are serious long-term medical problems caused by excessive drinking over a long period of time. Cardiac problems are common and may lead to various heart-related causes of death. Liver diseases are also life-threatening and may result from alcohol use over many years. Other results of excessive alcohol use include marital difficulties, trouble holding a job, and loss of friends.

If you or a person you love has an alcohol problem and has not sought help, there are many resources available. The first thing is for the drinker to understand that he must stop drinking, even though it is hard.

There are many rehabilitation programs that will be particularly useful for the first few months without alcohol. The drinker who wants to stop should tell his loved ones, talk to his or her doctor, and then enter an appropriate program. For many alcoholics who quit drinking, Alcoholics Anonymous is a wonderful program for those who need help staying sober.