According to gender-based guidelines provided by the World Health Organisation, alcohol problems are created when males consume more than 21 units of alcohol per week and females consume more than 14 units per week. It was also found that on average, females are more at risk of developing alcohol problems than males.
Individuals that routinely drink for more than 5 days of a week are also thought to have an alcohol problem. However, drinking one unit of alcohol daily for 5 days weekly improves health as it provides a protective effect on the heart.

Having said that we’d like to caution that once a person has become alcoholic it’s like a cucumber that’s been pickled it cannot return to being a cucumber and similarly the alcoholic cannot return to drinking one unit of alcohol a day without it becoming problematic.

Having alcohol problems can be harmful to the body as liver and brain damage, cirrhosis, heart attacks and high blood pressure are all possibilities. Various types of cancers such as stomach cancer are also linked with alcohol problems and it can also damage the pancreas and the nervous system.

Socially, things such as unemployment, violence and crime are all linked with alcohol problems as well as deteriorating relationships with loved ones.
Depression, anxiety and panic attacks (in worst cases paranoia and mental confusion) are also associated with alcohol problems. However, these usually diminish when excessive use of alcohol is stopped.

The term “alcohol problems” encompasses a wide range of difficulties associated with excessive alcohol consumption. It includes alcohol addiction, commonly known as alcoholism or alcohol use disorder (AUD). Alcohol problems can also refer to harmful or hazardous drinking patterns that negatively affect your health, relationships and overall quality of life.

Rehabs and addiction treatment centers provide specialised care for individuals struggling with alcohol problems. These facilities offer various services, including detoxification, counselling, therapy and support groups. The goal is to help you overcome your dependence on alcohol and develop a healthier and more fulfilling life without it.

One key term you might encounter is “”detoxification,”” which refers to the process of safely removing alcohol from your system. It often involves medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms, which can be unpleasant and potentially dangerous.

Addiction treatment centers may also offer different types of therapy to address the underlying causes of alcohol problems. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with drinking. Family therapy may also be available to help repair relationships damaged by alcohol problems.

Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), provide a valuable source of community and understanding during the recovery process. These groups bring together individuals facing similar challenges offering mutual support, guidance and a non-judgmental environment to share experiences and strategies.

It is key to remember that alcohol problems are not a new phenomenon. Throughout history, societies have grappled with the negative consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. The alcohol recovery community has continuously evolved to develop effective treatments and support systems to address these problems.

Gender Disparities Reveal Hidden Risks In Alcohol Consumption

How do the World Health Organisation's guidelines on alcohol consumption differ by gender, and why are females considered at higher risk for developing alcohol problems than males? Get help from qualified counsellors.

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