Long-term abuse of alcohol can cause severe psychological problems, including extreme anxiety and alcohol dependency. Many long-term drinkers deny they have a problem. They also have great difficulty in setting long-term goals, are unable to handle responsibility, and proceed to accomplish necessary tasks. Continued abuse of alcohol may lead to alcohol dependence. All age groups - men, women, and young people can become alcoholics.
Teens can become alcohol dependent in as few as six months.
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, 1993.