Alcohol

Alcohol

Alcohol dependency can affect anyone. Experts have tried to pinpoint factors that may predispose someone to alcohol addiction, but there is no single cause.

Some factors that may contribute to alcohol dependence may include:

  • Biological factors
  • Environmental factors
  • Social factors
  • Psychological factors
  • Family history
  • Stress
  • Peer pressure

Signs and symptoms to look out for - in yourself - or someone you know:

  • Lack of control
  • Inability to stay away from alcohol
  • Overwhelming desire to drink alcohol
  • Withdrawal symptoms are present, when you stop drinking
  • Alcohol has become more important than other things in your life
  • Finding it hard to stop drinking when you want to
  • When alcohol doesn’t have an effect on you, even after consuming a large amount

If you are dependent on alcohol you may drink:

  • First thing in the morning,
  • Every evening
  • Every day
  • A lot of the time

If you are dependent on alcohol and if you don’t drink you:

  • Will be irritable
  • Won’t be able to sleep
  • Have physical symptoms, such as shaking, sweating, sickness
  • Will feel anxious and upset

Advice

Supports for alcohol dependence, and for those who are affected by someone else's dependency, are available through AGS and also through support organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon (details below).  If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, please contact one of the supports listed below.

As an employee of AGS, you can contact the Inspire 24/7 Helpline at any time on 1800 817 433. The service is free and confidential. You do not need to be “in crisis” to use this service, you can speak to someone about any concern – big or small.

 You can contact any of the services/supports in An Garda Síochána including:

GEAS Garda Employee Assistance Service on (01) 666 0390 or employeeassistance@garda.ie

Peer Supporters – a full list of peer supporters is available on the portal or you can contact GEAS for details of Peer Supporters in your area.

Chaplains

Fr. Joe Kennedy and Rev. David Pierpoint have their contact numbers listed on the portal.

 Additional information and support