The Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Today we were given fact sheets about the effects of alcohol on the body. It came as a bit of a shock to me how many I can relate to. In addiction these are the only three exits off the roundabout: Jails, Institutions & Death. I’m blessed not to have been given jail, Judge Mary Fahy can see some goodness in me that others can’t. I’ve had my fair share of institutions too; I’ve lived on and off in homeless accommodation for about twelve years, I’ve also been admitted to the psychiatric hospital three times this year alone. I don’t fear death anymore, I’ve been so close yet so far from it for years now. To put it simply, addiction is just horrible, I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Not even my ex-principal. I sometimes question why me? But this only creates frustration, an addict in sobriety cannot afford to be frustrated. An excess of any emotion can lead to relapse. Without stating the obvious I’m learning more and more about the relationship between alcohol and depression. One piece in particular caught my eye today. “Self-medicating is using alcohol as a way to cope with depression. If you do this, you may be at risk of deeping the feelings of depression. You may also rely on alcohol more. If this becomes your way of coping, it can lead to a dependence on alcohol.” I also suffer from high blood pressure, arrhythmias and have an increased risk of stroke. I could also relate to having skin problems and a horrendous record in the sex life department. I don’t think I have ever had sober sex. I am blessed that at present I only suffer from fatty liver, but cirrhosis, ulcers and eventually liver failure are only around the corner if I continue to drink.