While alcohol is widely used in our society, it can clearly have negative effects on women and can lead to larger medical problems.  With 2-3 drinks per day, a woman increases her risk of developing cirrhosis or high blood pressure.  At four or more drinks per day, there is a 40% increase in the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Women become intoxicated at nearly twice the rate of men.  Studies have shown that when controlled for body weight, women become intoxicated faster and display a higher level of alcohol than men.  This appears to be caused by differences in the ways in which men and women process or digest alcohol.

Alcohol can also have a negative impact on families.  It is responsible for the most preventable birth defect: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.  Alcohol or drugs have also been estimated to be involved in nearly half of all domestic violence cases and as high as 80% of all child abuse cases.

How can you tell if you are having problems with alcohol?  You may want to ask yourself several questions:

Have people commented on your alcohol use?

Do you keep drinking in spite of negative consequences?

Are you missing work or school due to alcohol use?

Do you feel guilty about your drinking?

Do you hide your alcohol use from others?

Is alcohol affecting your relationships with family or friends?

If your are concerned about your drinking, help is available.  Substance abuse counselors can help you and your loved ones develop the skills to create an effective recovery plan.  Support groups can also be helpful in developing a social network that is free of alcohol.

Ann Dolan, LCSW, CSAC is a psychotherapist who specializes in treating substance abuse issues and practices at the Aurora Behavioral Health Center/North Shore in Glendale, Wisconsin.  For more information or to schedule an assessment regarding the use of alcohol, contact Aurora Behavioral Health Services at (414) 773-4312.

                                                                                                                                           Ann Dolan, LCSW, CSAC