# Introduction Hi everyone, I'm Linda and a nurse by profession. i'm new to steemit and steemit health style community. i love to watch movies, read and teach basically health related topics. i hope to contribute effectively to the community. This is my first post in the community, feel free to engage # ALCOHOL ABUSE: ITS EFFECT ON HEALTH AND SOLUTIONS ![](https://i.imgur.com/Q8FM2H0.png) [istock](https://) - [ ] Alcohol i believe is a substance almost every one of us have consumed which could be beer, wine(red or white), brandy, whisky, rum, vodka and so on. Moderate consumption of alcohol itself is not entirely a bad idea but its abuse as with other substances leads to considerable negative effects on health which could either be physiological, socio-economic or psychological. # Definition of alcohol abuse Merriam-Webster dictionary defines alcoholism alcohol abuse as a chronic, a progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction. Consumption of alcohol has a negative effect on human health across all life spans. therefore it is a global problem that needs to be addressed. # Effects of alcohol abuse ![](https://i.imgur.com/9ugvpND.png) [shutterstock](https://) The effects of alcohol abuse can be categorized into: 1. Physiological effects 2. Socio-economic 3. Psychological ### Physiological effects These include the physiological functions of the body affected by alcohol abuse. it affects most organs including the vital organs. some of these effects include: * Cellular damage * Pneumonia * Ulcer * Malnutrition The effects are largely represented in the diagram below ![](https://i.imgur.com/e5U9Z6C.png) [istock](https://) ### Socio-economic effects These are the effects of alcohol abuse on economic and social status of the individual. these includes: * Poor performance and productivity. * poverty * unemployment * violence * accidents * social isolation ### Psychological effects of alcohol abuse ![](https://i.imgur.com/oZeeclX.png) [serenityatsummit.com](https://) These include damages to the regions of the brain which are: * impaired learning and memory capacity, * depression * suicidal thoughts * alcohol intoxication and dependence. # Solutions ![](https://i.imgur.com/UvZeJfI.png) [maxpeoplehr.com](https://) Both individuals and government play a role in curbing this major global health challenge. Some of these solutions include: 1. The government should come up with Anti-alcoholic initiatives which should be incorporated in school curriculum at all levels 2. Implementation and enforcement of policies by the government to regulate the production, sale and consumption of alcohol. 3. Health education and awareness creation on dangers of alcohol abuse to health 4. individuals should seek immediate medical attention in cases of alcohol addiction for early treatment. # Conclusion Alcohol abuse can definitely be resolved when medical attention is sought early which helps to prevent further damages to the individuals health and indirectly affects the productivity in the society. Therefore, it is essential this problem is curbed in the society. > [reference]:merriam-webstar dictionary https://www.merriam-webstar.com "title" definition of alcoholism.