Alcohol, unlike other drugs, is present in every corner of our society, and is socially accepted and proposed in many situations.

We have to understand that alcohol is a drug and a lack of control over its consumption causes dependency and thus leads to addiction, which is a very serious illness that affects many families.

But when do we know we've lost control?

Alcohol consumption is present in most families, from meetings to social events, and is seen as a good alternative for relieving stress.

Some patterns in alcohol consumption have been identified:

• Moderate consumption - that which does not cause risk, the person has control and knows their limit.
• Risky consumption - the person causes harm to themselves and others.
• Harmful consumption - the person consumes alcohol constantly and the use is already damaging their health.

Studies show that alcoholism is a chronic disease that has genetic, psychosocial and environmental factors.

Because it's a legal drug, it's very easy to access and the leap from pleasure to addiction is dangerous.

People who consume alcohol use it as a way of relaxing after a stressful day or at social events with friends.

There are people who are genetically predisposed to addiction and who, if they consume large quantities, end up losing their self-control.

How do I know if I'm a dependent?

• Feeling the urge to drink in a short space of time.
• Getting angry when alcohol isn't available.
• Store alcohol in many places in the house.
• Feeling shaky, nauseous, when you don't eat for a long time.
• Not being able to limit the amount of alcohol consumed.
• When alcohol consumption damages relationships with family, work and friends.

The treatment of drug addicts is carried out by a team of professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists.

The drug addict must want to get treatment, the desire to change is theirs, recognizing that they are ill is the first step towards this change.

The support of family and friends is also important for successful treatment, but it is the addict who must see the problem.

Know that you are the protagonist of your life, receiving support is always worthwhile, but only you can change your story.