Alcoholism arises as a result of a destructive pattern of drinking alcohol, the continuity of which becomes addictive and therefore addiction by definition - this is alcoholism.

Drug addicts, commonly known as junkies, come about in much the same way, although they belong to a different culture due to the illegality of their practice making them criminals. Alcohol is legal, therefore alcoholism is more prolific.

Most alcoholics will undergo a body cleansing process at some point in their lives, known as detoxification (detox). This is normally carried out in a clinic which is often residential, where care and help with their problems through education and therapy form the basis of the treatment.

Alcoholism expert Nick Charles, founder of the world famous Chaucer Clinic, together with his General Manager, Nikki de Villiers, give advice and counselling based on their experiences and books Nick has written on alcohol abuse.

Nick feels a grave concern for an entire populace abusing alcohol, and sees as terrifying the storm clouds gathering for an ever increasing number of young alcohol abusers, many of whom have resorted to body mutilation (cutting arms etc) due to acute depression brought on by alcohol abuse.

He warns all drinkers, that once hooked rehabilitation can be a very long process.