Alcoholism is a disease that includes basically four symptoms: Craving (a strong need to drink), loss of control (not being able to stop), physical dependence (withdrawal symptoms) and tolerance (the need to drink more). A person can be considered an alcoholic when these symptoms occur. The craving that an alcoholic feels for alcohol can be as strong as the need for food or water. Like many other diseases, alcoholism is chronic, meaning that it lasts …showed first 75 words of 506 total…

…showed last 75 words of 506 total…celebrating significant occasions with friends or loved ones, enhancing enjoyment of social activities and relaxation, complementing certain meals, participating in religious ceremonies, enjoying the taste as a beverage of choice. Negative reasons for drinking alcoholic beverages include: Escaping from tension or worries, blocking out painful feelings such as fear, loneliness, and self-doubt, attempting to relate better to people, as a substitute for meaningful relationships with people, and finding courage or strength to face certain situations.