Alcoholism is a type of drug dependence.
There is both physical and psychological dependence with this addiction. Physical dependence reveals itself in withdrawal symptoms when alcohol intake is interrupted, tolerance to the effects of alcohol, and evidence of alcohol-associated illnesses. Alcohol affects the central nervous system as a depressant resulting in a decrease of activity, anxiety , tension , and inhibitions. Even a low level of alcohol within the body slows reactions. Concentration and judgment become impaired.