A chronic illness marked by consumption of alcoholic beverages at a level that interferes with physical or mental health, and social, family, or occupational responsibilities. Alcohol dependence or alcoholism is the most severe form of alcohol abuse.
Alcoholism is a type of drug addiction.
There is both physical and psychological dependence with this addiction. Physical dependence reveals itself by 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.