DryOutNow provide free medical information, research articles and news on alcohol and drinking related addictions to help inform professionals. The article below is one of a selection of news articles, academic research papers and information articles relating to addictive behaviour, and in particular to alcohol and drinking.

Of the many potential symptoms suffered by an alcoholic, one of the indicators of a problem is becoming dependent on alcohol. The term alcohol dependency can refer to different symptoms of an individuals addiction to alcohol.

One interpretation of the term alcohol dependency concerns the psychological dependency an individual may have towards alcohol. This can refer anyone who has developed a regular routine of alcohol use, particularly when they place more importance on the use of alcohol than other activities that may require their time and attention. Alcohol dependency can also apply to an individual who relies on alcohol to get them through a stressful time or certain situation. While there may be no physical dependency on alcohol, if the prospect of a particular situation without access to alcohol creates a sense of dread, there is a degree of alcohol dependency present.

The other definition of alcohol dependency refers to the physical dependence on alcohol that can develop when someone is drinking heavily and/or regularly. This is exhibited through alcohol withdrawal symptoms that may occur when an individual stops drinking, which usually results in them returning to alcohol. Physical symptoms of alcohol dependency can start off mild being emotionally volatile, feeling anxious, nervous or irritable, maybe some shakiness even. More moderate symptoms of alcohol dependency can include more uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, headaches, nausea, vomiting and tremors of the hands. In severe cases of withdrawal from alcohol, confusion and hallucinations can occur as well as agitation, fever and convulsions. Alcohol dependency can result in some unpleasant and dangerous symptoms when trying to break free from the dependence.

It is possible to give up alcohol having developed an alcohol dependency. By seeking treatment and support it is possible to survive through alcohol withdrawal symptoms and end alcohol dependency. Detox is one of these important steps. Using prescribed medication to replace the effects of alcohol a person can progress through alcohol withdrawal symptoms and free themselves from the physical symptoms of alcohol dependency. The next step is to break the psychological aspect of alcohol dependency, the need to drink to get through certain aspects of life. This can be tackled by seeking counselling, whether this is therapy through an outpatient program, or through a more intensive period in a rehabilitation centre.

Seeking the help needed is one of the most important steps of breaking alcohol dependency. There are many avenues of help and support available to help you to stop alcohol dependency. DryOutNow.com offers help and advice to those who call them on $phoneNumner and can also help to organise and arrange any required treatments such as detox and rehab that can help free someone from alcohol dependency.

Our professional advisors are available to you 12 hours daily, 7 days a week, to help you with expert, completely practical advice about alcohol abuse, free-of-charge. All appropriate forms of alcohol abuse treatment can be arranged wherever you live. Telephone 0845 370 0203 now for advice in confidence.