Alcoholism Alcoholism is a devastating disease that disrupts many people’s lives. Alcoholics are willing to take the risk of losing their job, along with risking the safety of co-workers to satisfy the craving of the drug known as alcohol. Alcoholic’s families are troubled, and sometimes separated because of the strain they must bare; along with feeling embarrassed, guilty, and afraid for their loved ones. The greatest gamble alcoholic’s take is jeopardizing ones health. Many alcohol related diseases such as: alcoholic liver disease, cancer of the liver, dementia, and degeneration of the heart muscle are major causes of premature death (MEDSOC