* An engaging but authoritative analysis of the devastating effects of the disease
* This new edition provides up-to-date information on the effects of alcohol consumption on the body and their differences between men and women
* Includes Key Points boxes at the start of each chapter to quickly summarise important concepts covered in the text
* Case Histories and Patient Perspectives provide practical examples throughout
* Includes detailed discussion of different pharmacological treatments now available for treating alcoholism Myths and Fact boxes highlight common misunderstandings and interesting facts about the condition
* Includes a useful Resources section with suggested further readings and contact information for patient self-help/support groups, along with a glossary of technical terms

The third edition of this successful Facts title was authored by the late Dr Donald W. Goodwin, who wrote with a unique and engaging style defining alcoholism in very human terms. Although much of Dr Goodwin's assessments of alcoholism still hold true today, a great deal of progress has been made in the quest to better understand the underlying causes of the disease. This fourth edition, written by a group of Dr Goodwin's former colleagues, whilst retaining much of Dr Goodwin's original material, offering his unique perspective on alcoholism.
The new edition includes updated information about the effects of alcohol consumption on the body, a new section on the particular sensitivity of women to the effects of drinking, and information and advice relating to the consequences of alcohol abuse for the abusers, their families and society.

1. Alcoholic beverages
2. Alcohol in the body
3. Alcohol and its effects
4. Alcohol through the ages
5. What is alcoholism?
6. The symptoms
7. The course
8. Women and alcohol
9. Risk factors
10. Alcoholism and co-occuring mental illness (dual diagnosis)
11. Heredity
12. Drinking 'rewards'
13. Judgment and self-control
14. Treating alcoholism
15. Psychological approaches to the treatment of alcoholism
16. Medications to treat the alcoholic
17. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
18. Attacking the problem

"...recommended to anyone who has concerns about their own or someone else's drinking, who wants to understand what is going on...a resource that teases out some of the complexities of alcohol use in society and of alcohol dependence...[and] the often conflicting issues around definition, aetiology and treatment." - Chris Holmwood, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Australia