Alcohol dependence is a complex process and even holiday drinking could trigger a problem.
Dr Brian Zink, an emergency physician at the University of Michigan, points out that alcohol is responsible for one in four attendances in the emergency room - either directly or indirectly.

It's something to bear in mind if you indulge in a few drinks over the festive season.

Binge drinking - that is, several drinks on one occasion - might lead to alcohol dependence and a host of physical and mental problems. To stay safe, you shouldn't have more than one drink an hour. And be very careful when driving - ideally, don't drink at all or nominate a non-drinker to do the driving. It's commonly believed that alcohol protects you from serious injury if you are in an accident - in fact, the reverse is true, says Dr Zink.

Without wishing to dampen anyone's celebrations, it's worth remembering that too much alcohol kills brain cells, causes memory loss and emotional disturbances. And in the long term it may increase the risk of liver disease and various types of cancer.

Source

University of Michigan 3rd December 2002