Alcohol & Other Drugs

Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a chronic illness distinguished by a person's dependence on alcohol. Some signs of alcoholism could be a craving for alcohol, inability to regularly limit the number of drinks they have, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking (physical dependence), and a tolerance or need to drink more to feel the effects from alcohol. There are outlying factors that could increase a person's probability of becoming an alcoholic, such as genetics or environment. There is no magical cure for alcoholism, but getting help in counseling and treatment can help someone quit drinking.

Long-Term Risks

  • High blood pressure
  • Liver diseases
  • Stomach ulcers
  • Intestinal bleeding
  • Weight gain
  • Bone loss
  • Decreased testosterone
  • Brain damage
  • Nerve damage
  • Enlarged heart

Does my friend have a problem?

Respond "yes" or "no" to the following statements:
  1. Your personality is altered when you drink alcohol
  2. When you are presented with a social scenario (i.e., a party) that has no alcohol, you feel uncomfortable
  3. You sometimes have a drink to help you sleep
  4. You have been arrested for intoxicated behavior or driving under the influence of alcohol.
  5. Even after your friends say they've had enough alcohol, you want to continue drinking.
  6. Your family or friends have expressed concern about your drinking.
  7. It is hard for you to stop drinking after just a couple drinks.
  8. Drinking has caused you to be late to work, skip class, or perform poorly on an exam.
  9. Certain friends encourage you to drink.
  10. You find yourself at times craving a drink.
  11. You always seem to end up drunk when you drink, even if that wasn't the intention
  12. When you're sober, you regret things you said or did while you were drinking.

I need help

Call the AOD/RC or another licensed facility with expertise in substance abuse and schedule an appointment to meet with a substance abuse counselor. At the AOD/RC, this is free of charge.

Contact Info

Alcohol & Other Drugs Resource Center

Memorial Hall 102
1 University Circle
Macomb, IL 61455

Phone: (309) 298-2457
Hours: 8:00am - 4:30pm M - F
Email: aod@wiu.edu