Dipsomania Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dipsomania
[ˌdɪp.səˈmeɪ.ni.ə ]
Definition
medical condition
Dipsomania is a compulsive craving for alcohol that can lead to destructive behaviors and heavy drinking episodes. It is considered a form of alcoholism where the individual has an uncontrollable urge to drink. This disorder can have serious health implications and may require professional treatment.
Synonyms
alcoholism, drunkenness, intoxication.
Examples of usage
- His dipsomania caused significant issues in his personal life.
- She sought help to manage her dipsomania after years of struggle.
- Doctors identified her dipsomania as a central issue in her health problems.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Dipsomania is often associated with addiction, leading to compulsive drinking behavior that can have severe consequences.
- The condition can result from psychological factors such as stress or trauma, making it important to address underlying issues.
Cultural Significance
- In literature and film, characters exhibiting dipsomania often reflect the struggles of addiction, portraying both the highs and lows of excessive drinking.
- Historically, public attitudes towards dipsomania have fluctuated, with periods of stigmatization followed by more compassionate understandings of addiction.
Historical Context
- During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), dipsomania became more visible as individuals sought illegal ways to satisfy their craving.
- Dipsomania was once seen as a personal failing, but modern views attribute it largely to biological and psychological factors.
Health Implications
- Medical professionals recognize dipsomania as a disorder that can lead to liver disease, mental health issues, and social problems.
- Treatments often include counseling, support groups, and sometimes medication, highlighting a path to recovery.
Origin of 'dipsomania'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'dipsa', meaning 'thirst', combined with 'mania', meaning 'madness or obsession'.
- It was first used in medical literature in the late 19th century to describe people with a physical need for alcohol.
The term 'dipsomania' originates from the Greek words 'dipsa,' meaning 'thirst,' and 'mania,' meaning 'madness' or 'frenzy.' It was first used in the 19th century to describe an uncontrollable craving for alcoholic beverages, characterized by episodes of intense drinking followed by periods of abstinence. The concept emerged during a time when medicine was beginning to understand addictions as diseases rather than moral failings. Dipsomania was once thought to be a form of insanity, reflecting the stigma associated with alcoholism. The classification of dipsomania evolved over the years, with varying definitions and interpretations; it is now often integrated within broader discussions on alcohol use disorders. While the term is less commonly used in contemporary medical language, its historical context provides insight into the early understanding of addiction.