Alcohol addiction is not only found in adults; it also exists in teenagers. Alcohol addiction basically means using alcohol in a manner which is not meant to be used. Hence, when teens use alcohol, it is regarded as alcohol abuse, because they are not legally approved to either buy or take alcohol.
However, in most high schools, most teenagers would have taken alcohol before they graduate, and it is detrimental to their health in the long run. Alcohol addiction is serious in teenagers because their brain is currently undergoing a critical development in this phase, and substance abuse could negatively impair the effect which is most times irreversible.
Alcohol addiction in teenagers is obvious in the physical and psychological symptoms, and they are sometimes confused for adolescence signs, instead of signs of addiction. Hence, because of this, teenagers might be hooked on alcohol for a long period of time, before anyone is able to spot that it is an addiction problem.
When teenagers start taking alcohol, there is usually an urge to take more, because the body would begin to request larger amounts of alcohol in order to keep producing the same pleasurable effects. Alcohol addiction sets in when it is impossible to control the use of alcohol. It is also evident when the individual is aware that there are negative effects associated with alcohol addiction, but he still continues to use it.
Physical alcohol addiction in teenagers implies that their bodies are dependent on alcohol. Hence, as they continue to take alcohol, their bodies develop a liking for it, and withdrawal symptoms set in, if the individual does not take the regular dose.
The following are common withdrawal symptoms in teenagers:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Problems in the digestive system
It might be difficult to know when a teenager is addicted to alcohol, but there are some obvious signs of alcoholism which can aid you, they are listed below:
- Gain or loss of weight
- Inconsistent sleeping habits
- Mood swings
- Sickness
- Regular partying
- Sadness
The long-term effects of alcohol addiction in teenagers are listed below:
- Problems in the liver
- Stomach ulcer
- Heart disease
- Neurological problems
- Coma
- Death
The short-term effects of alcohol addiction in teenagers are listed below:
- Vomiting
- Breathing problems
- Seizure
- Coma
Parents are advised to seek prompt treatment for their teenagers from professionals, who will provide the necessary guidance alongside with effective treatment programmes.