ses or codependency. Anotherconcerning consideration in treating an individual with alcohol dependency is themedication he/she is taking at the time of treatment. All medication the individual istaking while consuming alcohol is also a critical issue to consider in treatment.The alcoholic dependent person spends a great deal of their time in activitiesnecessary to acquire the substance, in consuming the substance, and in recovering fromits affects. At times when they are expected to fulfill major role obligations at work,school, or at home they will be intoxicated or suffering from the symptoms ofwithdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, hallucinations, sweating,seizures, and diarrhea. Alcoholism can be physically hazardous causing injury to theperson while engaging in occupations under the influence of alcohol. Intoxication cancause auto accidents leading to injury or death of persons involved. There is alsodeterioration in overall function especially to the liver, heart, and brain. There is a highincidence of social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced due tosubstance abuse. Alcoholism affects family life, vocational performance, self-careabilities, physical and emotional health, social relationships, and financial well-being. Psychological and emotional deterioration for the alcoholic may include low self esteem,anxiety, depression, paranoia, emotional numbness, and poor handling of frustration. Failure to move through the normal emotional developmental milestones is an outcomeof early onset addictions. They remain emotionally immature and may act very similar toadolescents. Their behavior may be rebellious, temperamental, demanding, anddishonest. The process of learning to be responsible, accountable, mature, andindependent adults may take up to 3-10 years. Alcohol dependency is accompanied by alife of denial and defense systems that serve to maintain the addictive process. Denial is...
