This is why you should quit drinking alcohol: Learn from John

The Dangers of Drinking: One Man's Story of Alcohol Addiction

John Smith thought he had his drinking under control. He would have a few beers after work to unwind and on weekends to socialize with friends. But over time, his alcohol use escalated. "It started to interfere with my job and relationships," he says.

John's story is not unique. Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance in the United States. While moderate drinking may seem harmless, for some it can lead to addiction, health problems and ruined lives.

John first started drinking in college. "It was part of the social scene," he says. After graduation, he would have a beer or two after work to relax. But over the years, his tolerance increased and he started drinking more. "Soon I needed alcohol just to feel normal," he says.

The consequences started piling up. John would call in sick to work because of hangovers. He was late to important meetings because of alcohol-induced sleep interruptions. His wife complained about his drinking. But John couldn't stop. "I tried cutting back, but the cravings were too strong," he says.

John's alcohol use took a toll on his health. He gained weight and developed high blood pressure. He was diagnosed with fatty liver disease. "I knew drinking was hurting me, but I felt powerless to stop," he says.

Finally, after a drunken argument with his wife that almost ended their marriage, John sought help. He attended an outpatient rehab program and joined a support group. "Getting sober was the hardest thing I've ever done," he says. "But it was also the best decision of my life."

John has now been sober for 5 years. He rebuilt his marriage and his health has improved. He wants to share his story to warn others. "Alcohol may seem harmless at first, but it can quickly lead to addiction," he says. "If I could go back, I would have never had that first drink."

John's story shows the dangers of drinking, even socially or moderately. For some, alcohol use can escalate over time into addiction with devastating consequences. So if you don't drink, stay away. And if you do drink, be careful - it may be harder to quit than you think.