Unlike most other substances that can be easily abused, alcohol is the most accessible because you can buy it legally in almost any city or town without interference if you have over the legal age. Easy access to alcohol is one of the main reasons why alcohol abuse and alcoholism is such a common problem in America. In the United States, “alcohol abuse affects approximately 10% of women and 20% of men. “The scary thing about alcohol is that it attracts and affects people from all socio-economic backgrounds; no one is safe from alcohol abuse. If we do the math, it becomes clear that almost 50 million people in our country have alcohol problems. When a person abuses alcohol, it affects their brain and they behave abnormally. Like any other addiction, once you become an alcoholic, it is difficult to stop drinking. However, our society has many ways to help someone get back on track. Once a person admits that they have a problem and moves away from their denial, they can finally begin the difficult process of detoxification and address the type of behavior that caused the addiction. Although alcohol affects everyone differently, there is strong evidence that excessive alcohol consumption has no positive effects. When a person is affected by alcohol abuse, their behavior with family, friends, and relationships usually takes a drastic turn for the worse. People who abuse alcohol usually have anger issues. They get angry easily over small things, especially if they are criticized for their drinking. Talking about alcohol exasperates alcoholics because they deny having a problem and deny that they are harming themselves. Becoming an alcoholic can ruin important relationships...... middle of paper ......le.htm>. “Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Self-Help: How to Stop Drinking and Start Recovery.” Helpguide.org. Internet. November 9, 2011. "Alcoholism and alcohol abuse - PubMed Health." PubMed Health. Internet. November 9, 2011. "Alcoholism and alcohol abuse: signs, symptoms and help for alcohol problems." Helpguide.org. Internet. November 9, 2011. “ADVERTISING EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL ON THE BRAIN.” » NIAAA Publications. Internet. November 9, 2011. “Should You Drink Alcohol for Your Heart?” » Well-being Letter: Site map. Internet. November 9. 2011. .