ALCOHOL STILL TOP PROBLEM DRUG

Admission to psychiatric hospitals for drug dependence have doubled in five
years - but nearly ten times as many are still being treated for alcoholic
disorders, according to official figures.

The figures show while just 277 people were admitted to psychiatric
hospital for drug dependence in 1991, this jumped to 514 in 1994 and 565 in
1996.

In contrast the numbers of people with alcoholic disorders who were
admitted for treatment in 1991 reached 6,592 and fell to 5,435 in 1996 -
but remains the largest abuse problem facing health authorities.

A survey of deaths directly related to alcohol dependence also showed a big
increase from 15 in 1990 to 54 in 1996.

Deaths directly related to drug dependence also rose from 4 in 1990 to 36
in 1996.

Experts say the first sign of alcohol dependence is using alcohol for
relief from stress, anxiety and anger.

Other signs include suffering from hangovers, getting drunk often even when
you don't intend to, and being unsuccessful in trying to give up or drink
less.