Passage 1
Alcohol is generally thought of as a stimulant, because it makes us talkative, aggressive and unrestrained. In truth, however, it depresses the activity of the nervous system and acts as an anesthetic (麻醉药).
People drink for many different reasons. Social pressures are a subtle spur to drinking because, in small doses, alcohol loosens the tongue and, therefore, convinces us that our social interactions are improved. People also drink to give themselves rewards, to fill in empty hours or to relieve tiredness.
In small doses and for short periods of time, alcohol relieves tension, encourages a sense of well-being and is unlikely to be harmful. However, some people mistakenly use alcohol in an attempt to relieve major problems. This not only leads to alcohol tolerance so that larger and larger doses are needed to produce the same effect but, unfortunately, also tends to worsen the problems. In large doses, alcohol causes chronic depression, misery and self-doubt.
Like any other drug, alcohol has drastic effects on mental and physical health if taken in excess, and can reduce life expectancy dramatically. Disorders of the digestive system, cancer and brain damage are often the result of heavy drinking. These physical effects of alcohol abuse may or may not precede the behaviorally damaging effects. Thus some heavy drinkers have little behavioral upsets such as decline in memory and intellect, depression, breakdown and notions of suicide before the physical damage takes its toll.
Unfortunately, the effects of alcohol can destroy other people's lives, for fearless behavior and impaired judgment cause accidents. This is especially so on the roads. In Australia, for example, it has been estimated that at least 50 per cent of deaths on the roads are associated with alcohol consumption.
Overconsumption of alcohol is a growing problem in many countries. Family and social relationships are disrupted by alcohol dependence, since alcohol abuse leads to violence, child neglect and, frequently, the breakup of relationships. Even moderate drinkers find themselves increasingly isolated from others, and friendships are soon replaced by alcohol. At work, performance gradually deteriorates and regular absence increases.
Giving up alcohol is similar to giving up other addictive drugs. For a heavily dependent drinker it should not be considered as equal to giving up, say, cigarette smoking. The withdrawal symptoms are unpleasant, including shaking limbs, aching muscles and sweating. This means that, almost certainly, medical help and supervision will be needed. Many hospitals now provide “detoxification" (戒酒) centers for alcoholics. Patients are given medication and vitamins to prevent brain damage and are monitored to chart their condition and progress.
In helping a young person with a drink problem, it is far better to get help from outside the family. Within the family, there is always a temptation to keep troubles private, but this can do more harm than good. If your child has a problem, try to arrange a visit to an expert chosen for his suitable personality and ability, not for his position. Select someone who will talk to the child friendly and who will not merely take the unwelcome role of a third parent.
People who drink to excess, whether young or old, usually do so for a reason. Unfortunately, parents are often the last people a child or young adult feel they can talk to. Indeed, poor communication with parents may be the problem that is causing the drinking. Whether they are young or old, people will not give up drinking unless they can see that it is worthwhile. Parents are often unable to supply the necessary rewards. Asking for the help of a close family friend who can talk to the child as adult-to adult may also be helpful in this situation.
Under what circumstances will young alcoholics give up drinking according to the author?
A.When they find it worthwhile to do so.
B.When they are forgiven by their parents.
C.When they are aware of the pain of their parents.
D.When they are treated as adults rather than as children.
正确答案是A