Alcoholism Myth and Fact

Alcoholism is an illness that casts a shadow over everything it touches. It affects individuals, their spouses and children, their work, and society in general.

Here at Employee Assistance Program, we see many employees and family members whose lives have been profoundly affected by alcohol. Many times, employees come to the EAP for help with a marital conflict, job stress, depression, or a legal or financial concern only to discover through counseling that alcohol abuse or addiction is at the root of their problem.

Among the obstacles to recognizing alcoholism are many myths that surround it. Many people believe things about alcoholism that simply aren't true. These myths cloud our thinking and keep us from recognizing alcoholism when it shows up in ourselves or in someone we know.

Here are some common myths followed by the facts.

Myth: Alcoholics drink every day.

Fact: Many people in the middle or late stages of alcoholism drink on a daily basis. Those in the earlier stages of the disease may binge drink (defined as having five or more standard drinks on one occasion for men, four or more drinks for women) and go for weeks or even months without alcohol.

Myth: Alcoholics can't stop drinking.

Fact: Stopping drinking is not an issue for alcoholics. Many alcoholics have stopped over and over again. However, they resume drinking despite negative consequences. The trick to recovery is to stay stopped.

Myth: You can't be an alcoholic if you only drink beer.

Fact: Alcohol is alcohol. It's not the type of beverage that matters, its the alcohol in it.

Myth: An alcoholic or addict has to want to be helped.

Fact: Most alcoholics and addicts do not ask for help because they don't believe it will make a difference. They are sick, unable to think rationally, and incapable of giving up the alcohol or drug by themselves. Most recovering alcoholics and addicts enter treatment only at the urging of their family, employer, a judge or doctor. Self-motivation occurs during treatment, not before.

Alcoholism and addiction are treatable diseases. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, consider scheduling an appointment with the EAP. EAP can provide confidential counseling, education and information and explore with you the options available for help.

The worst thing you can do in the face of alcoholism is to do nothing. Give EAP a call at 408-241-7772