Category: Addiction

According to the Planned Change Process, the first step is recognizing that change is necessary. Carlos Ramirez, a social worker at a high school in a midwestern state, should work with four teenagers who were suspended for two weeks for drinking alcoholic beverages at school. He realizes that appropriate actions and responsive measures should be developed and implemented as alcohol consumption among adolescents has already become a serious and common issue that should be addressed (CDC, 2020). The major goal of implemented changes is to reduce drinking in schools. Carlos Ramirez decided to be a change agent. In other words, he will take a responsibility for improvement from his side as even the smallest positive changes may contribute to the whole situation.

After a thorough examination of the four teenagers backgrounds and atmosphere in the school on the basis of interaction between classmates, Mr. Ramirez concluded that young people have a lack of interests and certain problems related to family relations. In addition, alcohol consumption was common in the families of two students from those four who were suspended. As a result, a social worker decided to organize scheduled meetings that will be divided into three types  meetings with parents, individual meetings, and meetings with whole classes. The main purpose of these meetings will be to provide psychological support to students, explain to them and their parents the negative impact of alcohol consumption, and provide essential tips for parents concerning how to talk about alcohol with their children. In addition, Mr. Ramirez hopes that during these meetings when adolescents are sincere and open with him, he will help students understand what interests they have, including sports activities, hobbies, and part-time jobs.

Reference

CDC. (2020). Underage drinking. Web.

Haroutunian, H. (2016). Not as prescribed: Recognizing and facing alcohol and drug misuse in older adults. Simon and Schuster.

The book in question dwells upon substance misuse in older adults and ways to address this problem. Chapter 2 provides valuable insights into the peculiarities of this populations addiction development with the focus on age and family. The author describes some of the most common reasons for and mechanisms of the development of addictions in the target population. Haroutunian (2016) also sheds light on several important training techniques that can be instrumental in implementing effective 12-Step programs. One of the central points to consider is methods to avoid ageism. Haroutunian (2016) emphasizes that people trying to help a person with addiction (including family members, counselors, and other mental health practitioners) are prone to this issue. When choosing methods to help their loved ones, these individuals ground their effort on their assumptions and knowledge about aging, which can be harmful (Haroutunian, 2016). First, it is essential to learn more about aging, and it is critical to consider all possible causes of addiction and diverse aspects to build on when developing coping strategies.

This source is valuable for the present project as I will improve my knowledge about the peculiarities of aging and the development of addiction in older adults. I will also be cautious to avoid ageism that can lead to negative consequences. When working with the client, I will also pass this knowledge to the woman who might have a limited understanding of the processes that are taking place. This awareness of potential causes of the problem and healthy ways to age can help the client overcome her addiction. The book also provides insights into spirituality at different ages that can also be a topic of discussion.

Kelly, J. (2016). Is Alcoholics Anonymous religious, spiritual, neither? Findings from 25 years of mechanisms of behavior change research. Addiction, 112(6), 929-936. Web.

The article under consideration is concerned with the spiritual nature of Alcoholics Anonymous programs and their effectiveness in different populations. Kelly (2016) highlights the differences related to age, gender, and cultural backgrounds. The author notes that females tend to respond differently to the program than men. Age differences should also be considered when implementing 12-Step programs. The researcher also stresses that the spiritual elements of the program should not be confined to religious themes and topics. With less religious people, it is essential to concentrate on such areas as the good and the bad, love, compassion, forgiveness, and others. At the same time, Kelly (2016) also states that Alcoholics Anonymous should be conducted in the communities where people live in order to maximize positive outcomes. Relapse in women is more common as compared with men, especially when treatment is short. These projects should also be continuous, as participants benefit from the involvement in lasting programs.

One of the valuable insights gained from the source is associated with the essence of spirituality. Prior to discussing spiritual aspects, it is important to discuss the exact meanings behind the concept, as seen by the client. I will discuss my clients religious beliefs to make sure the program will be successful. If the woman is religious, I will definitely try to refer to sacred texts and exact passages. I will also initiate discussions of broad concepts, but if the level of religiosity is rather low, I will focus on these elements exclusively. Kelly (2016) also mentions the healing effect of music (both religious and non-religious). I will also employ music and the discussion of its impact on the program.

Matsuzaka, S. (2018). Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people: A qualitative study. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 36(2), 152-178. Web.

The present article is a valuable source for the current project as it provides insights into the challenges females abusing alcohol encounter and ways to address them. For example, Matsuzaka (2018) states that alcohol addicts have to face discrimination and stigma related to gender, ethnicity, class, age, and other factors. Although the author concentrates on LGBT participants and their experiences, the utilized methods are also effective in other groups. Stigma and discrimination have diverse negative effects on the outcomes of 12-Step programs, therefore, specific attention should be paid to these areas. Matsuzaka (2018) adds that the cultural peculiarities of clients should be considered. The researcher also adds that the involvement of a larger community is beneficial for abusers. Clients should be encouraged to increase their participation in social life, starting with deeper participation in their family-based activities.

An important argument made by the author is the need to pay specific attention to the transition to sobriety. I will support the client in her transition to sobriety that will be implemented through the focus on a set of goals. These goals will be mainly related to the family and specific real-life aspects rather than spirituality. I will also consider the cultural background of my client, which will be instrumental in exploring her spirituality and helping the women in her struggle with her addiction. I will try to make my clients more engaged in the life of the community. We will discuss various events that take place and ways to become a part of the discussed activities. Active participation can be one of the measurements of the effectiveness of the program.

Ranes, B., Johnson, R., Nelson, L., & Slaymaker, V. (2016). The role of spirituality in treatment outcomes following a residential 12-Step program. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 35(1), 16-33. Web.

This source deals with the evaluation of the effectiveness of a 12-step program and its impact on participants abstinence after the completion of the project. Ranes et al. (2016) claim that spirituality is an important component of any 12-Step incentive. Importantly, the researchers note that community-based treatment is the most efficient. One of the most valuable insights the researchers provide is linked to the peculiarity of spirituality. Ranes et al. (2016) argue that spirituality is not static as it is undergoing constant changes. The authors agree with other researchers regarding the religious aspect that is not seen as central to peoples spirituality. Such basic principles as gratitude, forgiveness, love, compassion, and others can be discussed. Ranes et al. (2016) state that peoples abstinence increases and remains high even after the completion of the program if proper attention is paid to spirituality. Working in groups is regarded as the preferable format, but individual counseling can also be effective.

One of the takeaways of the present source is the need to pay specific attention to gratitude and narcissism during the program. I will utilize different tools to measure the clients narcissism and gratitude. The article includes the description and validation of the most common and effective measurements, so I will employ these tools. For instance, I will use the Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale and Narcissistic Personality Inventory 16, as well as Gratitude Questionnaire-6. I will also employ methods to reduce the former and improve the latter. As has been mentioned above, spirituality is a dynamic notion, so I will trace the changes in the clients spirituality during the program. We will pay more attention to some general topics although certain religious themes and symbols will also be discussed.

Motive for Smoking

The rapists typically advise those who are daily tobacco users to quit, despite their willingness. However, the intervention for the smokers without any desire to stop is a complicated one. It primarily consists of multiple brief motivational interviewing sessions which last for several minutes. An Intervention should be educational to create supportive environment for the smoker. During the motivational interviewing, physicians try to understand the values, ideas, worldview, and reasons for smoking tobacco (Treating tobacco use and dependence, 2008). The doctor has to find contradictions in smokers mindset and use them against the destructive habit. It is natural for the patient to have some doubts about quitting; nonetheless, the therapist uses ones professional experience and knowledge to minimize any fears. Although it is a challenge for physicians, there are successful methods to help smokers.

Counseling and Behavioral Treatment Smoking

First of all, counseling and behavioral treatment is one of the most effective practices to quit smoking. For the nicotine addicts, a cigarette is a tool to manage stress, solve various problems, and to deal with anxiety. In other words, the habit is strongly associated with a method of handling a stressful situation (Klemperer, Hughes, Solomon, Callas, & Fingar, 2017). Counseling helps to develop a problem-solving skill and stress management. New strategies for handling nervous events help patients to reduce the desire to smoke (Treating tobacco use and dependence, 2008). The smoking also might be a symptom of an unresolved mental disorder. During behavioral counseling, therapists identify the roots of the problem and resolve the internal conflict one might have.

Secondly, medication in combination with counseling has been an effective strategy to quit smoking. As a matter of fact, medication can substitute cigarettes for the first several weeks of abstinence. Patients experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms which are hard to ignore. Symptoms will affect the behavior of the patient and ones welfare. Medical treatment can replace nicotine and reduce a possibility of relapse among smokers. There are also prescribed substances which can make worse if the patient decides to smoke again. However, the state of the smoker must be monitored closely when the drugs are prescribed as it might get worse because of relapse.

Harm of Smoking for Adolescents and the Elderly

Adolescent and elderly people need special strategies to end smoking. Elderly tobacco users try to quit smoking when their health is in a poor state. It is a challenging step for them because the addiction might be several decades old. There is a high risk of relapse among elderly people too. Only behavioral therapy can help them to stop smoking and adapt to the new way of life without cigarettes. In some instances, it is easier to motivate the elderly to stop smoking because of their deteriorating health. It is an influential factor since people are afraid to worsen their quality of life. Involvement of family and friends is valuable to the success of abstinence (Treating tobacco use and dependence, 2008).

For the teenagers, however, it is important to intervene as soon as possible to prevent the formation of the addiction. Cognitive therapy has a significant impact on abstinence; it doubles chances for successful cessation. Nonetheless, teenagers require serious monitoring and continuous support, especially for the first several weeks. At the same time, it is necessary to check on the patients progress and mental struggles with addiction (Roberts, Bidwell, Colby, & Gwaltney, 2015). Due to the difficult stage of adolescence, teenagers might experience some psychological issues associated with the habit, to stabilize their mental health physicians have to communicate with them frequently.

References

Klemperer, E., Hughes, J., Solomon, L., Callas, P., & Fingar, J. (2017). Motivational, reduction, and usual care interventions for smokers who are not ready to quit: A randomized controlled trial. HHS Public Access, 112(1), 146-155. Web.

Roberts, M., Bidwell, L., Colby, S., & Gwaltney, C. (2015). With others or alone? Adolescent individual differences in the context of smoking lapses. HHS Public Access, 34(11), 1066-1075. Web.

Treating tobacco use and dependence: 2008 update. (2008). Rockville, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services.

Addiction to substances can develop as a result of several factors, and researchers have tried to explain this occurrence via different approaches. There are several theories that explain the nature of addiction and its development. The biological perspective implies that genetics and brain chemistry alterations are predisposing people to addiction. Psychological theories examine the impulsive and compulsive behaviors applicable to substance use. Sociologists look at the environment that people live in to find factors that make substance use acceptable. This paper will explain the biological, psychological, and sociological theories explanations of substance use and discuss operant conditioning as a way of comprehending this deviant behavior.

Under the biological theory, there are two primary explanations of addiction: the genetic predisposition and the changes in the brains chemistry as a result of prolonged drug administration. Hence, this theory implies that some individuals inherit a predisposition to developing a drug addiction (Cavaiola & Smith, 2020). However, Cavaiola and Smith (2020) warn that although numerous family cluster studies have shown the increased likelihood of substance abuse or dependence within a family, it is difficult to make a distinction between environmental factors and genetics. This is because families, for example, siblings or parents, typically live in the same environment and are affected by the same social factors, which may also predispose them to substance abuse. This nuance is the overlap between the social and biological theories of addiction. Regardless, evidence shows that some genetic factors play a role in the likelihood of having alcohol or substance abuse.

Another biological element that can explain the development of dependence on drugs is neuroadaptation. This theory suggests that if a person intakes drugs for prolonged periods of time, their brain chemistry changes, prompting them to intake more, which is how addiction develops (Cavaiola & Smith, 2020). Once a person intakes drugs, their brain releases dopamine and tries to mitigate the effect of this substance on them. If one seizes to use these drugs, the brains homeostasis is disturbed as it already adapted to responding to a substance as a stimulus, which causes the withdrawal symptoms. This biological concept focuses more on the issue of repeated drug use that eventually causes addiction.

Under the sociological approach, the social environment causes a person to develop substance abuse. One explanation for this may be cultural level control and peer influence (Cavaiola & Smith, 2020). The first concept suggests that different groups of people have varied standards of acceptable behavior, and for some, using drugs or abusing alcohol may be the norm. Peer influence is the effect that the behavior of others, such as colleagues, fellow students, or neighbors, has on an individual. For example, if the majority of college students on campus drink alcohol, a junior may feel alienated if they do not. Hence, they begin to use alcohol as a way of developing a connection with their peers.

The family, neighborhood, and peer environments play a role in the way a person perceives alcohol and drugs. Moreover, Cavaiola and Smith (2020) argue that other social factors, such as poverty or exposure to racism, can also affect the likelihood of an individual developing a substance addiction. The social learning theory suggests that as an individual grows, they learn the cultural norms from their environment and their perceptions of acceptable behaviors are shaped by it as well. Hence, if predisposed to unfavorable conditions, an individual may develop a substance abuse disorder.

From a psychological perspective, substance abuse may be a result of other psychological disorders. For example, impulsive or compulsive behaviors are associated with higher chances of drug dependence (Cavaiola & Smith, 2020). The implication is that people who are more likely to develop an addiction have difficulty controlling their impulses. Hence, even if they understand the issue of drug dependence and the problems associated with it, they cannot stop even if they consciously understand that a substance is harmful. Impulsive behaviors are actions that are not premeditated and undesired for an individual, which they still complete (The Farm Rehab, 2018). A common issue that people with impulsive disorders face is substance abuse. Therefore, one element of the psychological approach to addiction is the lack of impulse control.

Apart from impulsive and compulsive behaviors, psychology researchers have put forward several other theories explaining addiction. For example, the self-medication hypothesis, Self-Psychology, Attachment Theory, and Trauma theory all explain how traumatic experiences or lack of support from a caregiver shape a persons psyche in a way where addiction is acceptable (Cavaiola & Smith, 2020, p. 15). Moreover, the developments of Freud in psychoanalysis have been used to explain addiction and treat it. The underlying premise of this is that ones trauma from childhood shapes how adults cope with problems (The Department of Health, n.d.). In some cases, this trauma makes it impossible to deal with issues and results in maladaptive behaviors, such as the use of alcohol or other substances.

A theory that offers a good explanation to why individuals would choose to intake drugs is operant conditioning. This approach combines the psychological and sociological theories discussed above. Under operant conditioning, an individuals behavior is a result of them learning something and seeing the cause and effect of their actions (Horvath et al., n.d.). For example, a child seeing adults drinking alcohol may learn that this behavior is acceptable. If they begin to drink alcohol and do not face any negative consequences for it, the effect of their actions will be positive, and hence this behavior will become habitual. Alternatively, genetics may predispose one to substance abuse, and under operant conditioning, with no negative consequences, the individual will continue using drugs. Consequently, the individual will continue using drugs. Moreover, according to Horwarth et al. (n.d.), addiction is a learned behavior because the initial pleasure or enjoyment was rewarding (para. 2). Hence, if the substance in question is not pleasurable to a person in the first place, they do not face a risk of addiction. However, most substances, such as alcohol, are either manufactured to taste good or offer a rewarding experience. These rewards cause a behavior to be learned more quickly. Thus, operant conditioning helps explain how certain predispositions to substance abuse and the rewarding nature of these substances result in addiction.

In summary, this paper focuses on the different theoretical approaches to viewing racism. From a biological perspective, genetics can impact the way a person reacts to alcohol or drugs and increase their chances of developing an addiction. Next, from a social perspective, the environment where a person lives, such as their family or peers, shapes the formers attitudes towards drugs and substance abuse. Finally, the psychological theory approaches the impulsive and compulsive behaviors linked to substances. The operant conditioning concept shows how the cause and effect may shape deviant behaviors such as substance use if an individuals actions do not result in harmful consequences.

References

Cavaiola, A. A. & Smith, M. (2020). A comprehensive guide to addiction theory and counseling techniques. Routledge.

The Department of Health. (n.d.). 3.4 Models that help us understand AOD use in society. Web.

The Farm Rehab. (2018). Impulsive and compulsive behavior. Web.

Horvath, T., Kaushik, M., Epner, A., & Morgan, G. (n.d.). Operant conditioning and addiction. Gulf Blend Center. Web.

The consumption of illegal substances and the development of addiction to them remains one of the primary health-related concerns in the American healthcare setting. The problem has grown particularly noticeably among high-school students, as the recent report by the National Institute of Health (2020) has indicated. Apart from the traditional list of illicit drugs, alcohol, and smoking, the 2020 report has also included more recent trends such as vaping (National Institute of Health, 2020).

Overall, the tendency for American citizens to abuse substances appears to be growing, which is a dangerous trend that must be curbed. Due to a drop in the efficacy of the immune system performance, increased strain on essential organs such as the liver, and the high probability of developing multiple types of cancer, drug addiction represents one of the most threatening and complicated conditions, which must be prevented with the help of appropriate programs.

Notably, the effects of drug addiction vary in severity and range depending on the type of drug that an individual chooses to consume. However, most illicit substances, namely, nicotine, cannabis, and opioids, affect the brains limbic system, particularly, the part of it that defines the production of dopamine (Berman et al., 2016). As a result, drugs cause an individual to experience a state of bliss. However, as an individual continues to consume drugs, the development of a habit causes the experience of pleasure to subside and the sense of dissatisfaction increases. Consequently, one experiences a severe need to increase the drug dose, which will eventually result in overdosing (Berman et al., 2016).

In addition to the described effect, illicit substances lead to the disruption and eventual destruction of the brain communication pathways. The described effect I especially prominent in patients abusing alcohol (Ray et al., 2017). However, the continuous consumption of other substances, especially opioids, will ultimately entail the same effects (Ray et al., 2017). Namely, the process of brain damage occurs once the amount of oxygen delivered to the brain is insufficient.

Apart from the brain, other organs are also severely affected by long-term drug abuse. For example, the liver suffers significantly due to exposure to toxic metabolic products resulting from processing illicit substances (Weissman et al., 2020). For the same reason, the stomach and the pancreas are also affected very often. Furthermore, the increase in blood pressure is caused by changes in the metabolism processes, as well as shifts in mood, which drugs cause, increase exposure to heart diseases, as well as severe problems with the nervous system (Weissman et al., 2020).

The threat of cancer also increases exponentially with the rise in the levels of illicit drug use. The described outcomes are particularly common for smoking, yet other drugs may also create an environment in which the cells of different body organs may experience unchecked growth and mutate, thus creating cancerous tumors in patients (Jett et al., 2018). Therefore, the threat of cancer is not to be underestimated as one of the crucial effects of illicit drug use, either.

In people abusing illicit drugs by injecting them, infectious diseases become a highly probable threat (Medina-Perucha et al., 2019). Moreover, in the instances of long-term drug injections, a patients veins may ultimately collapse, causing severe health outcomes (Medina-Perucha et al., 2019).

Namely, the disruption of the blood flow, which the specified phenomenon entails, is likely to cause severe complications. In turn, the openness to infections, which the use of a syringe suggests, may lead to the development of STIs, as well as a multitude of other infectious diseases, which will pose a major threat to a patients health. Moreover, being infected via sharing needles may entail the contraction of HIV and AIDS, which, in turn, will most likely lead to a patients death 9). Therefore, the use of illicit drugs, particularly, opioids, will inevitably lead to fatal outcomes, even if the initial dose is minimal. Moreover, the development of lesions, sores, and other skin conditions becomes a probable outcome as a result of long-term exposure to illicit drugs.

To develop a viable solution to the issue of drug addiction among U.S. citizens, one must take the social aspect into account apart from the health-related one. Namely, the fact that an individual is likely to be coerced into continuing drug abuse by a drug dealer even after a successful intervention needs to be taken into consideration. For this reason, a program aimed at assisting people with drug misuse problems must include social protection and, particularly, the opportunity to restrict their access to a drug dealer to them.

Additionally, the problem of severe legal repercussions that one may face due to drug possession and consumption must be handled accordingly. Presently, extraordinarily severe legal implications for people possessing drugs may prevent individuals from seeking help. Therefore, it is crucial to introduce changes to the current legal system so that the emphasis should be placed on the correction of behaviors and the possibility of recovery rather than the punishment of people with drug addiction issues.

The problem of illegal drug use remains a major health issue in the United States. Affecting thousands of people, the specified concern must be handled on the level of state policies and by developing appropriate public health programs. Thus, one will be able to create an effective strategy for preventing drug abuse, as well as encourage the victims of drug misuse to address healthcare services and seek help.

References

Berman, M., Paran, D., & Elkayam, O. (2016). Cocaine-induced vasculitis. Rambam Maimonides Medical Journal, 7(4), pp. 1-12.

Cherobin, T. Z., Stefenon, L., & Wiethölter, P. (2019). Oral lesions in crack and cocaine user patients: Literature review. Oral Health and Dental Science, 3(1), 1-5.

Jett, J., Stone, E., Warren, G., & Cummings, K. M. (2018). Cannabis use, lung cancer, and related issues. Journal of Thoracic Oncology, 13(4), 480-487.

Medina-Perucha, L., Family, H., Scott, J., Chapman, S., & Dack, C. (2019). Factors associated with sexual risks and risk of STIs, HIV and other blood-borne viruses among women using heroin and other drugs: a systematic literature review. AIDS and Behavior, 23(1), 222-251.

National Institute of Health (2020). Monitoring the future study: Trends in prevalence of various drugs.

Ray, S., Biswal, B. B., Aya, A., Gohel, S., Srinagesh, A., Hanson, C., & Hanson, S. J. (2017). Modeling causal relationships among brain areas in the mesocorticolimbic system during resting-state in cocaine users utilizing a graph theoretic approach. Journal of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, 5(4), pp. 1-8.

Weissman, S., Aziz, M., Perumpail, R. B., Mehta, T. I., Patel, R., & Tabibian, J. H. (2020). Ever-increasing diversity of drug-induced pancreatitis. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 26(22), 2902.

Adolescence is dangerous for the appearance of addictions, as it brings many difficulties for both parents and children themselves. Due to modifications in the hormonal balance, the mood changes rapidly, and the appearance becomes more adult. Teenagers try to understand the world around them and find themselves. Moreover, parents authority is no longer enough, since older children notice their imperfections and mistakes. As a result, socialization with peers, the desire to find their place in the company and keep up with others comes first. Despite the significant danger of adolescent addictions, they can be prevented through proper upbringing, motivation, and support.

Modern studies note an increase in the number of adolescents using various substances. According to research Recent surveys show the use of any illicit substances to be 15% by the time teens reach 8th grade, 28% by 10th grade, 39% by 12th grade, and 41% by the time adolescents reach college (Truong et al., 2017, p. 475). Moreover, the number of ways to use them is extending, for example, electronic cigarettes and vaporization (Truong et al., 2017). The problem is global in scope and relevant to different localities. For instance, according to Evans (2016), among nearly 7,500 people who died in Virginia from an overdose during the 2007-2015 period, most were teenagers. Experimenting with substances becomes a common part of adolescent life  smoking, alcohol, and drug use are frequent among adolescents worldwide.

Apart from substance-related dependencies, many researchers express concern about the distribution of non-substance-related disorders, including Internet addiction, dependence on video games, and others. Many factors can be a trigger for the use of various substances. The features of adolescents complicate the situation  often, their body is already quite developed, but the brain only continues to evolve. Relationships with family and friends, lifestyle, financial situation, and even simple interests can affect the decision to accept or not accept a new addiction.

As a rule, at this age, the first test of psychoactive substances occurs, as well as increased involvement in their use. Relationships with peers and family can influence the probability of addictions appearance. Dependencies, in turn, can have an impact on relationships  predominantly negative but also a positive. For example, according to a study by Savolainen et al. (2018), teens often use alcohol to get close to friends and build trusting relationships. The same study suggests that teenagers who are dependent on the Internet, often thus protect themselves from communication with their family, seeking support among the same peers online. However, this addiction, as well as drugs and gambling, can negatively affect social ties. In turn, social relations development can be a protective mechanism to help prevent the emergence of these dependencies.

The right education of a kid from early childhood, authoritative example and parents help in understanding the world around have a beneficial effect on the whole subsequent life of a person. Thus, they will be able to identify the good and bad for themselves and choose a company by interest. In their study, Lee et al. (2016) prove the positive effect of love and serving others on adolescents recovering from addictions. The results of their research can also be applied to the prevention of abuse of various substances. Serving others can contribute to the development of the right life priorities in adolescents and help them in the search for a personal place and purpose.

Thus, the problem of adolescent addiction has a serious spread. Tobacco, alcohol, drugs, as well as addictions to games and the Internet negatively affect the health of not yet sufficiently strengthened individuals. It can make a bad contribution to the entire subsequent life of the teenager. However, it is possible to prevent this problem by increasing the awareness of both children and parents. Proper education and spiritual development will help to protect adolescents against negative influences, thus enabling them to be more resistant to temptations. Future studies should aim to find and develop effective methods for educating and communicating about addictions.

References

Evans, K. B. (2016). Majority of fatal overdoses in Virginia are younger adults. Richmond Times-Dispatch. Web.

Lee, M. T., Pagano, M. E., Johnson, B. R., & Post, S. G. (2016). Love and service in adolescent addiction recovery. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 34(2), 197-222.

Savolainen, I., Kaakinen, M., Sirola, A., &Oksanen, A. (2018). Addictive behaviors and psychological distress among adolescents and emerging adults: A mediating role of peer group identification. Addictive behaviors reports, 7, 75-81.

Truong, A., Moukaddam, N., Toledo, A., &Onigu-Otite, E. (2017). Addictive disorders in adolescents. Psychiatric Clinics, 40(3), 475-486.

Ethnography as a research method is, indeed, the most suitable for the study on drug use and related issues. This method has already become a classic and has established itself as the most effective in studies of closed groups (Ferguson, 2017; Turner, 2019). Moreover, the research of such phenomena is impossible using standard qualitative and quantitative methods. Therefore, the mentioned anonymous survey does not appear to be a viable method for quantifying drug addiction prevalence on campus.

On the other hand, the causal relationship model obtained as a result of the study should contain some predictions about when the found relationship will be fulfilled or not fulfilled. However, ethnography does not require an explicit formulation of theoretical predictions (although it does not exclude them). For example, such predictions about who will and who will not use drugs, or how different groups will experience withdrawal, are rarely tested. Therefore, the researcher using this method should be especially attentive to the development of theoretical predictions that are subject to verification.

Participatory observation, like other methods, faces external and internal validity problems. That is, as in the case of an experiment or sample survey, the researcher must somehow determine whether their results can be generalized and transferred to other similar groups (external validity). They must also make sure that their results are not a by-product of the observation process itself (internal validity), that is, possible sources of bias should be considered. They include historical development, maturation of respondents during the study, reactive effects, and many others.

References

Ferguson, R.-H. (2017). Offline stranger and online lurker: Methods for an ethnography of illicit transactions on the darknet. Qualitative Research, 17(6), 683698. Web.

Turner, T. (2019). Just knocking out pills: An ethnography of British drug dealers in Ibiza. Journal of Extreme Anthropology, 3(1), 102120. Web.

Background

Addiction to substances can be perplexing and difficult to comprehend. Despite the progressively unfavorable consequences, addicted people take drugs and alcohol obsessively. Psychiatrists and psychologists have created a variety of theoretical models to explain the paradoxical and complicated character of addictive behavior throughout the years. Various techniques have been taken in an attempt to understand why people get addicted to drugs. However, the models utilized by addiction treatment centers do not provide the activities necessary to address concerns of alcohol and drug misuse. As a result, addiction counselors must develop new models within the recovery field and focus on assisting clients in dealing with their addiction. In Connors case, his history of early instances of alcohol use throughout adolescence and military service put him into a risk group for behavioral-based alcoholism.

Application of Disease Models

It may be determined that Conner has an alcohol use problem based on the clients behavioral patterns as examined above. The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for alcoholism are also used to make this determination. To understand why people drink abusively, one must first understand their drinking habits and routines, as well as their attitudes about alcohol and themselves. This method is known as cognitive behavioral theory, and it was used to emphasize the clients addiction during the analysis. Cognitive behavioral theory perceives alcoholism as a maladaptive approach for people to deal with issues and satisfy specific needs; a series of learned behaviors that can therefore be unlearned.

Such behaviors are taught through emulating role models or by experiencing the beneficial consequences of drinking, which include pain relief, increased sociability, and reduced anxiety, among other things. Individuals get reliant on alcohol as a preferred method of dealing with issues after experiencing repeated favorable benefits (Käll et al., 2020). These learned habits, according to this idea, can be changed through both cognitive and behavioral treatments. These therapies are appropriate for this client as they assist alcoholics in achieving and maintaining recovery.

The variables that lead to and maintain drinking are the focus of cognitive-behavioral methods to treating alcoholism. The practitioners focus on finding the most powerful antecedents for each addict, which might be social, psychological, or biological. These techniques help alcoholics break their addiction to alcohol by teaching them new ways to avoid and respond to the potential triggers. The said triggers are known to be a major obstacle in the recovery process as most alcoholics are not capable of avoiding them without the presence of proper support. This support is generally incorporated into the treatment and is known as coping skills training: a part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) recommended to Connor. When it comes to treating alcoholism, CBT has two key components: functional analysis and skills training (Käll et al., 2020). A therapist will do a functional analysis to determine the relationship between the clients drinking and its antecedents and consequences in this method. This understanding helps to define the function of drinking in a persons life and provides a focus for efforts to change behavior.

Sociocultural Factors and the Disease Models

As a multi-layered phenomenon, alcoholism is associated with a variety of causes and correlating factors, the precise combination of which depends on an individual case. Culture, religion, family, and job are all factors that might impact a persons conduct. As previously said, the family is the most important factor in determining the chance of having an alcohol addiction. Children who are exposed to alcohol misuse at a young age are more likely to develop hazardous drinking habits. This might have been the situation with Conner, who is stated to having begun drinking as a teenager in the company of peers. A persons susceptibility to alcohol consumption may increase when they start a new job. It is during these moments that a person looks for new acquaintances and forms new ties with peers.

Furthermore, if a person is already interested in such activities, being around others who are also active in them reinforces the habit, making it difficult for them to stop even if they wanted to. Alcohol addiction is influenced by culture as well. For example, some cultures, such as Irish culture, are linked with heavy drinking. To begin with, Conner is Irish, which might explain his drinking habits. Second, he works in a construction business where drinking is tolerated to a great degree. It implies that the majority of his coworkers are alcoholics, and that they have encouraged his bad habits.

Various psychological variables have been shown to enhance the likelihood of compulsive drinking. Every person has their own method of dealing with problems. However, the ways in which children learn to cope with these emotions might have an impact on their conduct (Fosha et al., 2019). Individuals suffering from stress, sadness, and anxiety, as well as other mental illnesses, are more likely to develop an alcohol addiction (Käll et al., 2020). People use alcohol to repress sentiments as well as relieve the symptoms of psychological disorders in such situations. When someone has a stressful occupation, they may resort to alcohol to help them deal with the emotional baggage. Connors employment in the military fits the aforementioned pattern, especially since it correlated with his episodes of heightened alcohol abuse.

References

Fosha, D., Thoma, N., & Yeung, D. (2019). Transforming emotional suffering into flourishing: Metatherapeutic processing of positive affect as a trans-theoretical vehicle for change. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 32(3-4), 563-593.

Käll, A., Shafran, R., Lindegaard, T., Bennett, S., Cooper, Z., Coughtrey, A., & Andersson, G. (2020). A common elements approach to the development of a modular cognitive behavioral theory for chronic loneliness. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 88(3), 269.

Introduction

The case study concerns Juan, a 59-year-old commercial pilot who has come to visit a clinician at the urging of his son. He lives alone, having divorced his wife and had his children move away. He engages in extensive daily drinking of both beer and hard alcohol, which he has been able to sustain due to his high tolerance for the substance. However, recently, he has been experiencing symptoms such as memory loss and occasional loss of consciousness, followed by an inability to get up. Earlier, he has also suffered a heart attack, which his son attributes to his drinking habit. Juan himself claims that he does not have an alcohol-related problem, only drinking socially and in moderation. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate his symptoms, produce a DSM-5 compliant diagnosis, and suggest treatment options.

Diagnosis

Juan describes some episodes that may be indicative of an inability to control himself with regard to alcohol, but overall, his drinking patterns seem consistent. His two-day period of not drinking after Guillermos departure may qualify as an unsuccessful attempt to stop drinking or cut down. He also spends a lot of time drinking, though he does not seem to suffer hangovers. Over the interview, Juan showed no signs of craving alcohol at any time, viewing it as entertainment rather than a necessity. Drinking does not appear to have interfered with his career or taking care of his family per se, though the health problems associated with it have placed him on leave. With that said, his drinking was at least a partial cause of Juans divorce from his wife.

Juan does not appear to have prioritized drinking over other activities, though he spends a lot of time at home engaging in it. He also gives no indication of having gotten into unsafe situations during or after drinking. With that said, he has kept drinking even after memory blackout episodes while knowing that it added to his existing health issues. Juan does not appear to have experienced diminished effects from alcohol, as he could always handle large amounts of it well. Lastly, from the conversation, it does not appear that he has experienced withdrawal effects when the alcohol was wearing off. As such, in total, Juan qualifies for four of the symptoms presented for determining the severity of alcohol use disorder in the DSM-5. This figure places him in the moderate category for the condition, represented by the code 303.90 (American Psychological Association, 2013). The diagnosis appears to be justified, as Juan does not seem to have other mental issues and has denied taking other substances or smoking emphatically.

Experienced Symptoms

From a chronological standpoint, the first symptom Juan has experienced is the heart attack that he had several years ago. The pathological nature of the symptom does not need an explanation, as it can potentially cause permanent disability or death. It should be noted that the degree of alcohols contribution to the heart attack is not necessarily clear. While Juans son and doctor assert that it was a direct cause, the lack of a recommendation to stop drinking from a physician should be noted. Juan was asked to quit smoking and did so successfully, which indicates that the role of substances in facilitating the problem was taken into consideration. With that said, the overall deterioration of his health described by his son, particularly the weight gain, is likely the result of alcohol.

More recent issues Juan has experienced are cases of memory loss and his blackout incident. Memory loss is pathological because it impedes Juans ability to operate normally, which is especially relevant in his job as a commercial pilot, where he is responsible for the lives of other people. Additionally, it may be indicative of broader damage to his nervous system that may develop into other issues if he continues drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. The blackout is pathological because it is also indicative of underlying issues. Moreover, Juan could not get up after regaining consciousness, which would have been highly problematic if his phone had not been within easy reach. Overall, Juans symptoms are substantial and require immediate attention as well as an intervention to ensure that they are mitigated.

Juan has likely continued drinking despite all of these issues due to how he has been socially and culturally conditioned throughout his life. At a relatively young age, he discovered his love of alcohol as well as his high tolerance for it. As he himself mentions, the ability to out-drink people made him popular, driving him to continue. With time, drinking became his principal form of entertainment, as is the prevailing theme in both fraternities and the Air Force. As a result, even after leaving both of these communities, he stayed reliant on alcohol as a way to spend time. Moreover, his endurance has led him to believe that the substance does not have any ill effects on him, as it has not impeded him from having a long and successful career. As a result, once it started failing him and causing issues, he refused to recognize the connection and kept drinking, partially out of stubbornness.

Treatment Options

Juan does not appear to have severe self-control issues and an overt dependence on alcohol. As such, an extensive medication-based intervention will likely not be necessary, and the focus should be on nonpharmacological options. With that said, he likely has a psychological reliance on alcohol, at the very least as his preferred way of alleviating boredom, though he is in partial denial about it. As such, in addition to a recommendation to quit drinking, behavioral therapy will likely be necessary. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one option that will help Juan recognize and avoid the triggers that drive him to drink excessively, though it is better suited to stress- and coping-related drinking. Motivational enhancement therapy may be a better fit, as it will help Juan find the strength to change his behavior in a purposeful manner.

Still, medication may deserve consideration, especially if, over time, Juan struggles to stop his drinking. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (2019) outlines four FDA-approved medications: acamprosate calcium, disulfiram, and oral as well as extended-release injectable forms of naltrexone. Of these, disulfiram is not suitable for treatment because it is used for different situations than Juans. Oral naltrexone may be the best immediate option in the case that it is necessary, blocking the receptors that produce pleasure due to alcohol. If Juan proves to be able to stay abstinent for extended periods, the other two medications may also be considered. Extended-release naltrexone is easier to manage because it is injected once a month, while acamprosate has to be taken three times a day, creating nonadherence opportunities. Moreover, acamprosate is better suited for patients who are already abstinent at the treatments beginning, which is not the case for Juan.

Overall, Juans treatment should begin with motivational enhancement therapy. He will undergo four sessions with a qualified provider, who will help him understand the necessity of not drinking as much, develop a plan, and learn the skills needed to adhere to it. Then, Juan will implement that plan while living normally, with occasional check-ins with the care provider. If he is unable to maintain the regimen and relapses into drinking, he should be prescribed oral naltrexone. If he is able to abstain but complains about craving alcohol, the extended-release version should be used instead. The treatment will be considered finished when Juan has been able to abstain from alcohol for three months and improve his overall health.

Conclusion

Despite Juans remarkable ability to handle alcohol, it ultimately started having significant adverse effects on him. Though he denies that and tries to defend his drinking habit, the decision to visit a medical care provider with his son shows that he has taken the first step toward recovery. Based on the analysis of his symptoms and relationship with alcohol, the diagnosis of alcohol use disorder was made. His symptoms are substantial but not permanent, assuming he quits alcohol or reduces his consumption of it significantly. Therefore, the focus of the treatment should be on persuading him to do so and providing him with the help he needs. Motivational enhancement therapy can help achieve this goal, and naltrexone in both oral and extended-release injectable forms can aid in removing his alcohol dependency in the case where such assistance is needed.

References

American Psychological Association (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5®). American Psychiatric Publishing.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2019). Medication for the treatment of alcohol use disorder: A brief guide. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Addiction treatment is not universal for all, and it might differ depending on the patients requirements. The specialist can pick the treatment that turns out best for every individual considering the substance he or she is abusing, the degree of care required, the patients very own psychological wellness needs, or what medical services alternatives the person can manage. Here are probably the most widely recognized compulsion medicines that have set patients on a fruitful way to healing.

Drug addiction keeps on being punished, regardless of the knowledge that discipline does not enhance substance use issues or related issues. One investigation discovered no measurable connection between state drug detainment rates and three markers of state addictions to drugs: self-detailed medication use, deaths from overdose, and drug use arrests (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2019). Restorative detox permits the patient to free from an assortment of drugs in a protected climate. This is useful for substance withdrawal since it can cause terrible or even dangerous actual side effects (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2019). Since detox does not treat the hidden conduct reasons for the compulsion, it is commonly utilized in mix with different treatments.

As indicated by American Addiction Centers, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a vital treatment which tends to be utilized for a wide range of dependence, including a compulsive eating disorder, alcoholism, and long-term drug use (Recovery Centers of America, 2021). CBT does not only assist an addict with perceiving his or her standards of conduct, but it can assist with learning to distinguish triggers and foster adapting abilities (Recovery Centers of America, 2021). Other restorative procedures can be applied together with CBT to make the therapy more efficient.

A methodology that utilizes a profound spirituality and a completely incorporated faith-focused program that works together with evidence-based clinical practice guidelines is what I accept to be a compelling strategy. I believe that it is essential to join the spiritual part with other clinical programs, including clinical gatherings, relapse prediction, and individual clinical meetings. These projects comprise a Bible report and a weekly outside church gathering (Faith in Recovery, 2021). As a Christian-based program, each part of the medication and drug abuse recuperation program focuses on the spiritual standards and associating with God.

Successful addiction treatment is comprised of three aspects, constructing the addiction treatment: body, mind, and soul. The physical body is treated throughout the therapy, but particularly during detoxification. Then, the mind is treated through individual and group guiding and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). During this procedure, the behavioral therapists may propose a patient with a background marked by trauma or various endeavors to enter one of the specific programs for recuperation (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2019). This way, their trauma can be managed comprehensively, improving the probability of recovery.

Lastly, nourishing the soul or strengthening religious standards as a mode of treatment can assist a patient with rediscovering his or her self-esteem and reason. It additionally gives an opportunity to mend, fix, reconnect, or revitalize someones relationship with the Higher Power. Rehabilitation Centers of America has also made a Christian Faith-Based Program for individuals who wish to join their confidence in substance abuse treatment (Recovery Centers of America, 2021). Building a connection with someones spirit or religion could be the impetus to heal the injuries which caused the addiction problem in person.

References

Faith in Recovery. (2021). About our Faith-Based Addiction Treatment Program. Faith in Recovery. Web.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019). Treatment Resources. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Web.

Recovery Centers of America. (2021). Drug & Alcohol Detox. Recovery Centers of America. Web.