Alcoholism is a disease of epidemic proportions, affecting 9.3 to 10 million Americans and many professionals believe the figures are closer to 20 million (Weddle and Wishon). Alcoholism is a "physiological or physiological dependence on alcohol characterized by the alcoholic’s inability to control the start or termination of his drinking"(Encyclopedia Britannica 210). It consists of frequent and recurring consumption of alcohol to an extent that causes continued harm to the drinker and leads to medical and social …showed first 75 words of 927 total…

…showed last 75 words of 927 total…There are many treatment programs for the alcoholic and support groups for the family and friends of the alcoholic. The most well known treatment program is Alcoholics Anonymous. The only requirement for this 12-step program is a desire to stop drinking. The purpose of AA is to stay sober and help other alcoholics achieve sobriety. This program has helped many alcoholics stop drinking and start living a healthier and more productive life (U.S. Healthcare 4).