Anyone can abuse alcohol and become and alcoholic. Current studies show an increasing number of alcoholic women, teenagers, and children, some as young as 10 years old. There is also a rising number of alcoholics among senior citizens. It is estimated that as many as one out of ten people over age 60 have alcohol-related problems. Denial occurs when a person refuses to believe that alcohol-related symptoms are caused by excessive drinking.
Denial is a major obstacle to alcoholic recovery.
The effects of chronic intoxication interfere with thinking and impairs attitude, behavior, and personality. The alcoholic is incapable of recognizing the serious harm caused by heavy, repeated use of alcohol. Until drinking stops, the brain does not function normally. These effects may last for weeks or months, but they are mostly reversible. First, learn as much about alcohol, alcohol abuse, and alcoholism so that you may be better able to deal with the problems of alcoholism and some of your own feelings about the problem.