Thought on Alcoholism

I’ve never really been a preachy kind of person or had really any interest in telling people what to do with their lives, but in the past month watching my mom’s health deteriorate, I’ve become more and more wary of alcohol and want to put out a general warning to anyone who drinks regularly. Be careful. My mom was always just a social drinker, but it eventually got more and more out of hand. Soon she was drinking multiple pints of vodka a day, she sunk into a deep depression, and now she’s almost dead.

My freshman year of high school my mom was in the hospital for 6-8 months with alcohol-induced pancreatitis. Her body was failing and she was on her deathbed. Eventually she pulled through, but was warned that anymore drinking would put her in the hospital and she would most likely never come out. Of course she didn’t listen. With all of her special medications she felt invincible. Until about a month ago. Now she’s back in the hospital, and most likely not getting out any time soon, or ever. She has no control over her breathing, bowels, and is basically a vegetable. All because of cheap liquid you can get at any store or 7-11. She barely knows who I am, where she is, and why she’s in the hospital. The most that can come out of her mouth is “water” or “pain meds” when she needs them. It’s not a good way to live, or have tour children and family see you.

I’ve promised myself that I will never abuse alcohol or really any other harmful substance, and always consider the long term effects these substances have on my body and life. I also want to encourage everyone else to do the same. The feeling drunkness gives you will never be worth your health, independence, and even life.