According to the DSM-IV, an alcohol dependence diagnosis is:
...maladaptive alcohol use with clinically significant impairment as manifested by at least three of the following within any one-year period: tolerance; withdrawal; taken in greater amounts or over longer time course than intended; desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use; great deal of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from use; social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced; continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological pathology.
...maladaptive alcohol use with clinically significant impairment as manifested by at least three of the following within any one-year period: tolerance; withdrawal; taken in greater amounts or over longer time course than intended; desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use; great deal of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from use; social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced; continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological pathology.
Ahhh...and what this diagnosis leaves out is studies show people are genetically predisposed to alcoholism...and others seem to just develop an allergic type reaction to alcohol. It would seem even more appropirate if the words "black out" were included in the diagnosis! But then again...these bits of wisdom come from my personal interest in the disease! So, who am I to say?
Now, if I were to tell you that I would be breaking traditions....traditions steeped in anonymity! A very very very close friend of mine...whose name I can't mention - is the Epitome of an Alcoholic! So much so that the picture of alcoholic on the barrel - should be her picture. However, I am sorry to say that she lives in as much denial as she possibly can even when all evidence is to the contrary!
