Alcoholism is a serious illness that causes an estimated 75,000 deaths annually in the United States. When someone becomes dependent on alcohol, the urge to drink can overcome them at any time. They lose their self-control, become addicted and will do anything possible to get their hands on the alcohol because without it, serious withdrawal symptoms are sure to ensue. An important step for those suffering from alcoholism is to seek treatment for the disease. The hardest step to take in the treatment of alcoholism is the first one and that is to have the person admit they have a drinking problem. Most suffering from alcoholism don’t even realize they have a serious drinking problem, which is a big factor in admitting the problem and starting treatment. However, through the love and support of family and friends, the person with the addiction will most likely have the courage to admit they have a problem and start down the road to getting better. There isn’t a cure for alcoholism,