History Of Alcoholism
One of the most common addictions in the world is alcoholism. According to the World Health Organization, at least 140 million people engage in alcohol abuse to the point of dependency. This statistic, while unfortunate, is nothing new. Alcohol’s effects on the brain have made it a prime target of abuse since its creation, despite the slew of negative side effects. But while little can be done to erase the injuries of the past, there is hope for the future. Alcoholism might be part of our collective history, but it doesn’t have to be a part of our unfolding legacy.
A Short History of Alcohol Abuse Around the World
Ever since the introduction of viticulture as early as 6000 B.C., humans have been diligently involved in the creation of alcoholic beverages. With this creation came the tendency toward abuse. Records from ancient Greece reveal a culture of alcohol consumption, frequently to the point of excess. By 1500 B.C., the Greek belief system included a god, Dionysus, who was responsible for the success of winemaking. As different types of liquor were created over the centuries, alcohol took on a medicinal role, particularly in the 16th century. The rate of abuse grew along with the availability and popularity of alcohol, and throughout history, religious groups and governments alike have condemned drunkenness and the prioritization of drinking over other responsibilities and activities.
In the mid-1800s, artificially created drugs introduced new paths to addiction. However, alcohol abuse remains one of the most frequent causes of addiction in the United States. In 1657, Massachusetts became the first state to crack down on the sale of strong alcohol. In 1920, the 18th Amendment made Prohibition a nationwide policy, though the resulting rise of bootlegging and organized crime led to the eventual repeal of this amendment. Today, millions of Americans still struggle with alcoholism.
Do You Have a Family History of Alcoholism?
It’s not unusual for a tendency toward alcohol addiction to be passed down through families. Bear in mind that having a parent, grandparent, or relative with alcoholism does not automatically mean that you will develop the same disorder. There are, however, certain genetic components that can make an individual more inclined to abuse alcohol. If your family members have a history of alcoholism, you may need to take precautions. Drink in moderation, and if you or loved ones have concerns about your alcohol use, seek out the advice of a medical professional.
What to Do if You Have a History of Alcohol Abuse
If you have a history of alcohol abuse, whether as a part of your family line or in your own personal life, know that it is possible to get help and get sober in a safe, comfortable environment. Our dual-diagnosis approach and on-site medical detox treatments help ensure that all components of alcoholism are addressed, allowing our patients to have the best chance of success in their recovery. Our team includes board-certified doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists, and our facility is fully accredited. To find out more about how we can help you overcome your history of alcohol abuse, call our phone line, open and staffed 24/7, or fill out the form here to learn about our customized, cost-effective rehabilitation programs.