Category: Alcoholism

My first health issue that is happening every day is Drug addiction. Many do not realize how harmful some substances can be towards their health and overall on how they look. People judge others based on those habits and also by the person first impression, in which they claim that people who have a drug addictions lack moral principles and do not have self-control and that they have the ability to stop using substances at any time (NIDA). Although this is believed by most people, drug addiction is a severe and chronic disease that despite the harmful effects it is difficult to restraint from. Drugs affect various parts of the body, but mainly the brain, making it difficult to resist.

Most drugs affect the brain’s ‘reward circuit’ by spreading the chemical messenger dopamine into the brain (NIDA). This system controls the body’s ability to feel pleasure and motivates a person to repeat behaviors needed for success. This overstimulation of the reward circuit causes the intensely pleasurable ‘high’ that can lead people to take a drug consistently (NIHA).

The brain adjusts to the overdose of dopamine by creating less of it or decreasing the ability of cells in the reward circuit to react to it. (NIHA) This lowers the feeling of being high that the person feels compared to the feeling they felt when first taking the drug. They might take more of the drug, trying to achieve the same dopamine high. It can also cause them to get less pleasure from other things they once enjoyed, like food or social activities and hobbies/sports.

The long-term use of drugs is the real problem for anyone especially in the future. This can affect almost everything in your body causing it to shut down slowly. The consumption of drugs for a long time can affect other parts of the brain that can affect judgment, the ability to learn, decision-making, stress, memory, and over all behavior. Drugs take over the person body completely; drugs rot the body inside little by little.

While many people get addicted to drugs, others do not. Some factors that influence the risks of having a drug addiction are biology, the environment as well a person’s development. A person’s genes accounts for about half of the risks for addiction. Gender, ethnicity or presence of mental illnesses can trigger addiction. Factors such as peer pressure, physical and sexual abuse, early exposure to drugs, stress, and parental guidance can greatly affect a person’s likelihood of drug addiction. Although taking drugs at any age can lead to addiction, the earlier that drug use begins, the more likely it will progress to addiction. The earlier a person starts the harder it gets for them to overcome their addiction because there are already accustomed to it. This is mostly teens whose brain that control decision-making, judgment, and self-control are still developing. As most chronic illnesses, treatment for drug addiction is not necessarily a cure. However, addiction is treatable and can be successfully managed. Relapse is the return to drug use after an attempt to stop. Relapse indicates the need for more attention or different treatment.

Alcohol is another addiction. Alcoholism is very common; there are more than 3 million cases in the United States each year. This is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol. Alcohol is a legal, controlled substance that lowers anxiety and inhibitions. It also has a broad range of side effects, from loss of coordination to slurred speech. Not everyone who drinks is an alcoholic, but anyone whose life is negatively affected by alcohol on a consistent basis is considered to have an alcohol use disorder. Alcohol is commonly consumed as a drink in various forms, including beer, wine and hard liquors like whisky.

Beer is an alcoholic drink typically made from water, barley, hops and yeast. Compared to wine or hard liquor, beer usually has the lowest alcohol content by volume (ABV). Beer’s ABV ranges from about 2 to 12%.

Craft beer has been rising in the United States making beer consumption more fashionable, with microbreweries and home brewers and introducing new flavors and tastes can. One unfortunate side effect of the craft beer revolution is that they may have significantly higher amounts of alcohol than the average domestic draft beer with 11 to 12% ABV. People who drink these craft beers are prone to an alcohol addiction. Signs of a problem may include continuing to drink when everyone else has stopped or feeling the need to drink during uncomfortable or boring situations. Wine is made from fermented grapes or other fruits, such as pomegranates or berries. It is most commonly sold as white or red with a variety of flavor profiles. Compared to beer, wine has a more concentrated amount of alcohol. An average pour of wine (5 oz.) is equivalent in alcohol content to 12 oz. of beer. Its status as a “classy” drink can make it harder to spot when someone has a problem. Women are more prone to obtaining a wine addiction, making up 59% of wine drinkers in the United States.

Liquor has a much higher ABV than beer or wine and is often mixed with sodas, juices or water. When not mixed into drinks, liquor is consumed as a shot. Carbonation speeds up the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, so drinking liquor mixed with soda can cause quicker intoxication. The lower liquid content of shots makes them easier to consume, leading to a higher risk of abuse and subsequent drunkenness. Signs that a person may have an alcohol problem include, Decreased involvement in extracurricular activities, loss of interest in going to work or school, depression, lack of interest in interacting with friends and family, preoccupation with drinking, restlessness, inability to control drinking, erratic and violent behaviors.

Some short-term effects include vomiting, nausea, headaches, slurred speech and impaired judgement. Some long-term effects include blackouts, memory loss, liver disease and Thiamine deficiency. Alcohol addiction also has risks of certain cancers, brain damage, and immune system destruction.

Sex is the last addiction I will be talking about. Sex Addiction, also known as hypersexual disorder, is characterized by persistent and escalating sexual thoughts and acts that have a negative impact on an individual’s life. Sex addicts struggle to control or postpone sexual feelings and actions. Most sex addicts do not know how to achieve genuine intimacy, forming little or no attachment to their sexual partners. Eventually, the pursuit of sex becomes more important than family, career, and even personal health and safety. As sexual preoccupation increases in terms of energy and time, the sex addict follows a routine or ritual leading to acting out on desires, which is then followed by feelings of denial then shame, despair and confusion. A wide range of behaviors can be symptoms of sex addiction, including compulsive masturbation, multiple affairs, anonymous sex, obsessive dating, compulsive use of pornography, risky or unsafe sex, cybersex, exhibitionism, voyeurism and prostitution or use of prostitutes.

Sex addicts have varying patterns which can result in very different ways of acting out. Some general warning signs of sex addiction are secretive or dangerous behaviors including lying about or hiding sexual activities or having sex regardless of the consequences, inappropriate sexual behaviors such as having sex in inappropriate places with inappropriate people, using sex to deal with or escape from life’s problems, uncontrollable, compulsive sexual thoughts including inability to concentrate on other areas of like because of thoughts or feelings about sex, feelings of shame or self-hatred about sexual behaviors, self-worth of happiness tied to sex like feeling life would have no meaning without sex.

In conclusion, it should be noted that all the types of addiction described earlier are a significant social problem in American society and require the application of the right actions to combat them.

There are four conceptual models of addictive behavior as identified by Brickman and colleagues. These models are based on “beliefs about attributions of responsibility for acquiring the addictive problem and the responsibility for solving the addictive problem” (Miller, 2013).

My personal experience with addiction in relationship to my progression into recovery align with the compensatory model and integrate the four dimensions of SAMSHA’s definition of recovery as will be demonstarated. As I am studying and working in the everchanging field of addiction and recovery, new theories, research, and findings are published on a regular basis. My continuing education is a constant process of incorporating new information and using discernment with the new data. Additionally, best research strategies must be implemented.

Four Conceptual Models of Addictive Behavior

Brickman and colleagues have presented a useful analysis of personal responsibility. Their analysis reveals two fundamental questions: a) who is responsible for creating a problem?; b) who is responsible for solving it?. “These two questions generate four possibilities with respect to responsibility for personal problems including the moral model, the enlightenment model, the medical/disease model, and the compensatory model” (Addiction and Personal Responsibility: A Fundamental Conflict). The moral model constructs addiction as the result of a person’s weakness in character, suggesting that addiction is the result of bad decisions the addict makes due to poor moral strength. In addition, the enlightenment model proposes that the addict is culpable for developing the addiction, but not liable for solving it. The medical model holds the addict neither responsible for the addiction problem or the solution. Similar to the enlightenment model, the element of self-blame is eliminated. In comparison, the compensatory model poses that people are not responsible for the development of addiction but are responsible for their own recovery. Moreover, the compensatory model focuses on vigorous and balanced self-reliance, while encouraging the recognition of personal limitations, such as managing stress. There is no “magic bullet” for effectively treating persons with substance abuse problems. Different people respond to various approaches in diverse ways. This makes it critically important that individuals be matched appropriately with the treatment program or modality that is most likely to attack the problems resulting in their particular needs (Getting Ready to Test, 2017, p. 167).

Personal Perspective & Compensatory Model

The notion that addiction is a “brain-disease” has become widespread and rarely challenged. However, brain-disease model obscures the dimension of choice in addiction (Satel & Lilienfeld, 2014). People’s understanding of their ability to control their own lives will greatly influence which types of recovery models are most suitable for them. My alignment with the compensatory model comes from my belief that I have an internal locus of control. This personality characteristic describes a person’s sense of control over their own life. This intrinsic self-perception of control over one’s own life should greatly influence which type of recovery model is most suitable for them. When people have an internal locus of control, they expect they will determine their own futures because of their own actions (Personal Responsibility and Locus of Control). After analyzing the compensatory model of addiction, there are multiple factors in the development of addictive behavior which include biological predisposition, early experiences, social and cultural variables, and the continued use of substances as a way to cope with stress (Miller, 2013).

An interpretation of the fundamental ideas of this model can be identified in these statements:

• ‘I’m not responsible for creating the problem, but I am responsible for solving it.
• What do I need to solve the problem? (knowledge, skills).
• Someone else might say: “I respect you for your efforts. Let me know if you need any help”.
• Extreme, exaggerated versions of model – failing to recognize one’s own limitations, grandiosity, stubbornly refusing help of any sort.
• Healthy recovery application: ‘I sure wish I didn’t have these problems. However, since I do, I’m going to figure out how to resolve them. I’ll get some help if I need it” (Addiction and Personal Responsibility: A Fundamental Conflict).

Evidence suggests that biological, genetic, personality, psychological, cognitive, social, cultural, and environmental factors interact to produce the substance abuse disorder, and multiple factors must be addressed in prevention and treatment (Skewes & Gonzalez, 2013). Biological factors contributing to biological predisposition include evidence of heritability, genetic variations and genetic polymorphism. All of these variables may increase the risk of substance abuse. Children who are victims of abuse and show behaviors such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and aggression can be at an increased risk of addiction. Social influences have shown to be a strong predictor of substance abuse if a person’s peer group participates in and endorses substance use. Consider a quote by Tony Robbins which states, “The quality of a person’s life is most often a direct reflection of the expectations of their peer group”. Expressly, if a person’s peer group condones, glorifies and glamorizes certain behavior, a person is more likely to act in congruence with those behaviors. Most drug use is social, and drugs are usually consumed in groups. In these situations, feelings of disinhibition and talkativeness generally generate and promote social bonding due to subsequent drug use (‘The world drug problem: A status report’, 2006). Drinking to fit in initiated my alcohol use for relief of social anxiety and low self-esteem. My own experience of struggling with alcohol addiction and the process in which I came into recovery are in congruence with the compensatory model. A treatment approach in support of a rooted belief that I was responsible for changing my addictive behavior helped guide me into living a new and purposeful life in recovery.

Compensatory Model & A Pathway Recovery

Multiple factors should be considered and addressed for prevention and treatment for a person to reach and maintain a recovered state. The individual is assumed to be capable of compensating for the addiction by taking an active and responsible role in the change process (Marlatt, 1988). Frequently the application of a coping skills program is teaching clients stress management techniques by way of a strategy knows as stress inoculation training (STI) (Theories of Counseling, Lofgren & Perez, 2017- need help citing correctly). Such training addresses one’s own recognition regarding personal limitations, such as managing stress, which was crucial for my success in abstaining from alcohol. STI consists of a combination of constructs. These theories consist of Socratic discovery-oriented inquiry, cognitive restructuring, problem solving, relaxation training, behavioral rehearsals, self-monitoring, self-reinforcement, and modifying environmental situations (Theories of Counseling by Lofgren & Perez, p. 312- need help citing correctly).

The daily work of recovery, whether or not it is abetted by medication, is a human process that is most effectively pursued in the idiom of purposeful action, meaning, choice, and consequence (Satel & Lilienfeld, 2014). My progress in recovery has been achieved by eliciting change in all aspects of my life. Such changes in my lifestyle have included a supportive social network, a new sense of physical and emotional well-being as well as a meaningful career, healthier daily activities, and a newfound stability at home. These changes are in direct correlation to the four major dimensions of SAMHSA’s definition of recovery.

In my life, recovery is the process of change through which I have improved my overall health and wellness. SAMHSA defines four major dimensions that support recovery: 1) health-overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) or symptoms and making informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being; 2) home-having a stable and safe place to live; 3) purpose-conducting meaningful daily activities and having the independence, income, and resources to participate in society; 4) community-having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope” (Bradbury, 2019).

These four dimensions coincide and are integral parts of my notion of recovery. With strong faith in self-will, desire, and assumed ability to change my addictive behavior, the integration of change in all four dimensions was imperative. One approach to treating substance abuse from the social perspective involves changing the substance abuser’s environment and peer associations. The behavioral treatment approaches emphasize positive peer associations and pro-social lifestyles and activities. Self-help strategies similarly encourage drug0free activities and association with others in recovery (Getting Ready to Test, 2017, p. 160).

Treatment, Behavior Change, & Maintenance

Considerations for referring individuals to outpatient treatment programs are dependent on their motivation for treatment and ability to discontinue using drugs or alcohol (Getting Ready to Test, 2017, p.176). I chose to use outpatient treatment at NUWAY in Northeast Minneapolis as part of my recovery pathway because treatment is essential for those who become chemically dependent and are unable to control their use of alcohol (Getting Ready to Test, 2017, p. 151). When a person initially decides to enter a program of recovery, the primary goal should be to allow a person to attain advancement in overall physical and mental health (‘The world drug problem: A status report’, 2006). Once stabilization in my physical and mental health was met, change was met within the three additional dimensions of my recovery by incorporating behavior modification. Conceptualized by a sequence of changes, the change process helped me move from being unaware or unwilling to do anything about the problem to considering the possibility of change, then to becoming determined and prepared to make the change, and finally to taking action and sustaining or maintaining that change over time (Getting Ready to Test, 2017, p. 623).

Best Research Strategies for Addiction & Recovery

The best resource for credible information including data on addiction and recovery are peer reviewed articles within a library database. Most scholarly journals continue to use the gatekeeping (Gatekeeping, Collins English Dictionary, 2014). Gatekeeping is a process where submitted manuscripts are evaluated by scholars in the subject discipline in order to determine whether they are worthy to be published. This is a key distinction between a scholarly journal article and what you might find through the average Google search. On average, the peer review process does provide more confidence that the article is reliable than you would have from a website on the same topic (Badke, 2017). It’s important to be weary of Google searches because most results are published by treatments facilities as an advertisement in disguise. As part of this process, I consider epistemology (Epistomology. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011)). Scholars understand that the knowledge base will change over time and that some knowledge may even be suddenly disrupted by a radical new idea. Being a scholar means being confident in the discipline’s best understanding of itself to this point (Badke, 2017).

Conclusion

It is crucial when considering any psychoactive substance on a human, the psychomotor disturbances, physical consequences and overall dependence potential that may be attributed along with it. Substances are taken for a myriad of reasons, but not all drugs will be taken precisely as directed. By having a better understanding of how all substances will affect a person regardless of how they are taken, especially at a wider use scale, this then helps us to better understand the long-term physical and social consequences when introducing new drugs into society.

References

1. Addiction and Personal Responsibility: A Fundamental Conflict. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.centersite.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=48356&cn=1408-.
2. Bradbury, Allison. (2019, May 17). Recovery and Recovery Support. Retrieved from http://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/recovery.
3. Epistomology. (n.d.) American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved September 29, 2019 from http://thefreedictionary.com/Epistomology
4. Gatekeeping. (n.d.) Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014. Retrieved September 29, 2019 from http://thefreedictionary.com/gatekeeping
5. Getting Read to Test: A Review/Preparation Manual for Drug and Alcohol Credentialing Examinations (8th ed.). (2017). Apple Valley, MN: DLC Publishing. 573-591, 244-246
6. Marlatt. (n.d.). Addictive Behaviors: Etiology and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev.ps.39.020188.001255.
7. Personal Responsibility and Locus of Control. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.centersite.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=48357&cn=1408-.
8. Satel, S., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2014). Addiction and the brain-disease fallacy. Frontiers in psychiatry, 4, 141. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00141
9. Skewes, M. C., & Gonzalez, V. M. (2013). The Biopsychosocial Model of Addiction. Principles of Addiction, 61–70. doi: 10.1016/b978-0-12-398336-7.00006-1
10. The world drug problem: A status report. (2006). World Drug Report World Drug Report 2004, 23-56. Doi:10.18356/9713659d-en
11. William Badke. Research Strategies: Finding your Way Through the Information Fog. 6th edition. Bloomington, IN: iUniverse.com, 2017. ISBN: 978-1532018039

Understanding Alcoholism

To understand the effect that alcohol addiction has on the drinker and in turn their family, one must first understand alcoholism in and of itself. The Oxford English Dictionary defines alcoholism as being “the addiction to the consumption of alcoholic drink; alcohol dependency.” Although the term alcoholism is somewhat easily defined, the aetiology of alcoholism is a much more nebulous concept with many theories attempting to establish a clear cause and effect relationship between an individual and their relationship with alcohol. By understanding the potential factors that may cause alcoholism whether they be physiological, psychological or sociological, one can discover links between what alcoholism is and what kind of effects it may have on a family.

The Disease Concept

One popular theory amongst counsellors, physicians and recovering alcoholics, especially those affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous is Elvin Morton Jellinek’s “Disease Concept” first posited in his book, “The Disease Concept of Alcoholism”, in 1960. Jellinek’s main conceptions were that there were multiple “species” of alcoholism; Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Epsilon, with Gamma and Delta alcoholics progressing through an ever-worsening series of stages which culminate in the premature death of the alcoholic, if they do not seek treatment. These stages include: the “pre alcoholic symptomatic phase” where a person drinks for relief, the “prodromal phase” wherein alcoholics resort to surreptitious drinking and experience guilt for their intoxicated behaviour, the “crucial phase” whereby one drink leads to the next, which leads to the “loss phase” wherein the alcoholic’s health, relationships and employment suffer. Finally, the alcoholic enters the “chronic phase” which is the last phase before death, where they are utterly obsessed with alcohol.

The disease concept has garnered widespread support, mainly on account of its ability to be easily understood and its relatively straightforward approach to treatment; total abstinence. However, it is often misunderstood with many believing all species of alcoholism are a “disease”. Even if entirely understood, the theory remains fallible, for example; the progression of alcoholism is not inevitable and the “loss of control” is not supported by scientific evidence. The disease concept is useful nonetheless as it helps to clearly outline the fact that there is not merely one type of alcoholism. In doing this, it has encouraged therapists to inspect clients on a case by case basis which has, in turn, led to many discovering sobriety on this path.

Physiological Theories

There are many other physiological theories. Some believe that alcoholism can be inherited genetically. Although genetics may affect one’s propensity to develop an alcohol use disorder (AUD), there is no single “alcoholic gene” that predetermines the fate of an alcoholic. For example, some who have inherited genes making them susceptible to alcoholism, are responsible drinkers or never take a drink in their life.

“Research shows that genes are responsible for about half of the risk for AUD. Therefore, genes alone do not determine whether someone will develop AUD. Environmental factors, as well as gene and environment interactions, account for the remainder of the risk.” – National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (USA)

In the majority of family studies of alcoholism, it has been shown that relatives of alcoholics have much higher rates of alcoholism than the general population. However, hereditary patterns of alcoholism may also be purely behavioural and not linked to individuals’ genetic make-up. It is essential to question whether these patterns are as a result of an inherited propensity for alcoholism or can they be explained through learned attitudes and behaviours that are passed down from adults to their offspring? Due to contradictory genetic research and the difficulty in establishing a cause and effect relationship, it seems best to understand that genetics play a role in affecting one’s predisposition towards alcohol but that to develop alcoholism there need to be many other factors at play.

In the economic and emergent world, wherein everyone is worried about accomplishing their goals and objectives, and it is not astonishing to perceive the mounting intake of addictive ingredients such as drugs and alcohol. Commonly people come in bond with a drink during birthday parties or special events. Countless people devour alcohol for entertainment to feel joyful and a community segment or while they are driving via worry or sentimental turbulences in a lifetime. Hence, suppose you are someone you learn is battling with alcohol addiction, look for assist from the next-door Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre in Mumbai.

What is Alcoholism?

It can be described as a long-lasting, determined wish of consuming alcohol beyond regulating the addicted entity. It starts as an intentional decision to drink infrequently and ultimately turn into a multifaceted issue that creates the one dependent on it with force to misuse despite its uncountable dangers. If you are a prey of intoxication, you should approach any of the Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre in Mumbai. However, liquor addiction can impact anyone regardless of age, sex, enlightenment, profession, or family background. Consuming liquor for rebirth or on social events frequently contemplated satisfaction by numerous folk, and they disregard the jeopardy of coincidences, socially inapplicable manner, and many other dangers. Though, it is problematic to comprehend this accessibility of folks to liquor. Despite making myriad issues in everyone’s lifetime, kinfolks, function, well-being, and monetary grade, people endure consuming and bodily and mentally dependent on liquor. Intoxication is the utmost general addiction that messes up one’s well-being, kinfolks, and economics.

What are the Impacts of Intoxication on Family?

The family member of an addict identifies themselves intensely suffered by the home’s worrying circumstance because of the addict’s manner. In India, research displays that sole there are nearly ten suicides every day because of liquor addiction. One addict can spoil and carry inequality to their lifetime of the total kinfolk, and these impacts may endure for the next generation. However, liquor addiction is major hallucinations that a family may meet. To manage these issues, the administration has set-up rehabilitation centers throughout the world to aid the addicted one and their families. Just discuss with the best rehabilitation center’s doctors, know the alcohol rehabilitation program, and go to your next-door Liquor Rehabilitation Centre in India.

What is Alcohol Rehabilitation?

If you are battling from liquor addiction, an addiction retrieval program is an initial aspect of a de-addiction center. There are plentiful top-notch Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre in Mumbai to help people obtain therapy and discover release from their addictions throughout India. Simultaneously, rehabilitation aids an addict in return to a normal lifetime by undertaking severe therapy programs. Liquor rehabilitation includes decontamination underneath the direction of a specialist during utilizing alcohol is utterly give-up, and medicine is provided to manage withdrawal indications. During treatment, the sufferer is instructed to deal with anxiety, anger, and other issues impacting their lifetime. On the other hand, the psychotherapeutic method utilized during rehab programs aids in carrying out all stifled and bottled-up sentiments of the sufferer, which are dealt with in the active therapy process. Efficient counseling is the bottom of addiction therapy at any rehabilitation center in Mumbai or any place throughout India.

Alcoholics, people addicted to drinking alcohol to get intoxicated, have been around about as long as the drink itself. These people drink for several reasons – from just liking the feeling to trying to escape from emotions or the current situation of their family life. No matter what the cause is, the aftermath is usually pretty much the same. Having grown up most of my childhood with an alcoholic mother, I can confidently say that not only is the person who is doing the actual drinking affected physically and mentally but the dependents of alcoholics are usually deeply affected socially and mentally as well.

Growing up with an alcoholic parent can be an extreme struggle. Sometimes a child has to be a parent because their parent is incapable of actually taking care of them, or a child will become codependent on another person because they crave someone to be there to support them in the way that their parent does not. I personally have experienced both of these things. When I was younger and my family was living in Hawaii, my father was in the military, so he would be out on deployment and it would be my biological mother, my brother, and I at home. My mother was a chronic drinker. I remember once when I was in second grade and my brother was in preschool, we had to get up and get ready for school. The alarm had been going off, but my mom was not getting up to get us ready and help make our food to get us out the door. When I got up that morning, I realized that she had passed out drunk and was not in any way able to get up to take care of us. That was the first time that I had to act as a parent to my younger brother. After that, from the time I was about 8 years old to the time my parents divorced when I was 10, I became very involved in taking care of my younger brother and making sure that he was clean, well-fed, and safe.

Having an alcoholic parent can have many different effects on a child, but one of the main developmental areas that this can affect is their social development. Because they have to become a parent, the child doesn’t relate to other children in the same way. They have to grow up faster, so they are not able to relate to the same things that other kids their age are. This, in my case, led to me becoming friends with people who were several years older than me. When someone is 19 and their friends are 23 or 25, it isn’t a big deal. However, when they are 9 years old and their friends are 13-15 years old, then there is. This was how it was in my case. It caused me to grow up much faster and experience things at a much younger age than most of my peers.

According to a study done in 2005 by Dev Psychol, children whose parents were alcoholics had lower social competency than their peers who did not. This essentially means that these children found it harder to make and keep meaningful social connections with their peers. This is an alarming problem when looked at in depth because it has been found that children who make and keep friends are less aggressive, depressed, and lonely than children who do not. On top of that, it has also been found that greater peer rejection and lower peer acceptance have been linked to a lower sense of self-worth and psychopathology in adulthood. Because of this difficulty of making friends, children of alcoholic parents generally end up becoming social outcasts which, when paired with their genetic predisposition for alcoholism, usually ends up with the child following their parent’s footsteps and becoming an alcoholic as well, perpetuating the cycle. While this was never a problem that I personally have experienced, I have had friends with similar home lives to mine that did. They were the kids who were just a little bit weirder than normal, and the kids who usually got picked on a little bit more than the rest. There is one of these friends that I have still kept in contact with, and at the age of 21, she is already a full-blown alcoholic, and the many effects that go along with this seem to be quickly moving in on her.

Aside from the social developmental aspect, there are many other ways that an alcoholic parent can affect their child. In an article written by the APA, there were five basic rules that children in alcoholic homes usually had to follow. These rules aren’t things that are spoken aloud but were understood as law by the children because of the way things in the house run. These rules remind me a lot about the home that I grew up in when I was younger. Most of these rules were unspoken, but they were completely understood, and breaking them could be a very big disaster.

One of the first is a rule that exists in a lot of households worldwide, and that rule is to not speak about family problems. While this is something that seems very basic and not that big of a deal, for a child in an alcoholic household, it is what keeps them from talking about the neglect that they can experience. For example, in the story I told earlier about taking care of my younger brother, I knew without being told that I couldn’t tell anyone about that because my mom would get in trouble if anyone found out. I didn’t have any exact idea of how she would get in trouble or who she would get in trouble with, I just knew that no one was allowed to find out.

The second unspoken rule is that it is not okay to speak about or express feelings openly. This generally stems from wanting to keep peace within the family. Having an alcoholic parent can cause turbulence. Sometimes this is between parents or between a parent and a child, and while this turbulence is unable to be controlled by the child, they can control the drama they bring into the house and try to keep it to a minimum. This is something that I personally still struggle with. Learning from a young age that showing any emotion, except positive ones, creates negative consequences has made it difficult for me to speak openly when something bothers me or when I am upset about something.

The third in line on this list of rules is communication restrictions. This means that a child of an alcoholic parent will try to limit the amount of outside people they have in their lives. This actually has to do with the first rule where they don’t speak about what goes on inside of the home. The fewer outside people they have in their lives, the less likely it is that someone will question them about their home life, and the fewer people they have to keep an arms-length distance from emotionally. As for me, this was never an issue because I was someone who liked to meet new people constantly. I always liked getting to know someone new and making friends with them, so I never isolated myself in this way.

Number four in this list is less of a rule and more of a constant feeling that’s there in the back of a child’s mind as they go through their daily routine. The idea that nothing is ever good enough, but even so, this unattainable perfection is what is to be strived for. This was something that was constantly in the back of my mind. It always seemed as though whatever I did, no matter how hard I worked, nothing I did would achieve the level of perfection that was expected of me. Despite this though, I didn’t give up trying to reach it, because I always thought that if I was able to reach this goal, then things would be good again. My mom would stop being sad and drinking because things would be going right and she would have no reason to.

And the final rule in this list says that you have to work for the benefit of others, and you cannot be selfish. Most of these rules that get brought up have, in some way, to do with trying to keep the peace. As stated before, there are very few things that a child can control in the home, especially with a volatile, unpredictable mother to care for and worry about. The only thing that can be controlled though is their own responses and actions, so every action they take is done with the thought of keeping their alcoholic parents from going off. This though is a very tricky rule that children have to deal with. Sometimes things that can be perceived as ‘selfish’ are just the child trying to take care of themselves.

All of these rules, taken together, make the child grow up in a home where they have little to no trust for the people around them, and essentially be the parent to the alcoholic adult that is supposed to be taking care of them. In cases with siblings, like in my case, the oldest of the siblings usually has to play parent, not only for the alcoholic adult but for their younger siblings as well. This puts a lot of pressure on the oldest sibling and can cause them to develop bad behavior traits to lash out against the structure that they have to try to keep at home. In my case, I lashed out in many different ways long after my parents divorced and my mom was out of my life. I began to pick up bad habits, became more aggressive, and started not caring as much about school because I wanted to have some type of freedom to make my own decisions, uninfluenced by the idea of my mother and her addiction.

Another effect of the crushing responsibility that a child would be facing is a tendency to claim responsibility for the negative things that happen. Children in these homes, like me growing up, tend to take on a hyper-responsibility role, thinking that everything bad that happens at home is their fault and that they could have prevented it somehow by doing more. This thought process doesn’t generally extend to positive things, and this could either be because the positive things tend to be overlooked in a stressful situation or because there are so few positive situations to take responsibility for, but anyway it makes it so that the child is constantly worried about what negative outcome they have to prevent next. This extreme mindset is a consistent stressor, and this stress can actually lead to health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure as the child grows up.

The final developmental snag that children of alcoholics face is conflict control. Usually, as we grow up, we learn how to handle conflicts as they come. They can be annoying to deal with, but they aren’t anything that is too crazy to handle. However, because children in alcoholic homes are consistently having to deal with conflict in one form or another, they don’t learn to actually face them and fix them, they eventually just learn to avoid them. This can sometimes mean a child dissociating while an adult is yelling at them, or even retreating to their room when they see a conflict is about to arise. In my case, I also had a habit of doing this. Now, of course, I realize that this was just an avoidance technique by which neither I nor other children of alcoholics learned to really deal with conflict as we grew up, either at home or at work.

Summing up, alcohol is an extremely pervasive substance with the capability to affect a person’s life in many different ways. There is nothing wrong with enjoying a cup of whiskey, a bottle of Vailima, or even a glass of Merlot, here and there. However, one must always keep in mind the potential dangers of consumption. Growing up as a child of a neglectful, alcoholic parent can be difficult, but it doesn’t necessarily doom you to a life that is the same as your parent’s. I saw firsthand what alcohol did to my mother, and what it, indirectly, did to me. Alcohol and alcoholism affect not only the individual but also the people around them. The information is out there, and there are always people willing to help. Never fall so far into the grips of alcohol that you let yourself become a victim or an abuser.

Introduction

In the labyrinth of human struggles, alcoholism stands as an enigmatic foe that has plagued societies for centuries. Far beyond a mere indulgence, it has become a complex manifestation of human frailty and vulnerability. Like a silent storm, it creeps into lives, leaving behind a trail of shattered dreams, broken relationships, and lost hopes. The very nature of alcoholism eludes a simplistic definition, for it is not just the habitual consumption of spirits but a profound battle with one’s own demons.

Alcoholism, a relentless adversary, knows no bounds. It transcends age, gender, and social status, gripping the lives of the rich and poor alike, turning once vibrant souls into mere shadows of themselves. Behind each tale of alcoholism lies a unique narrative, encompassing the intricacies of emotional scars, societal pressures, genetic predispositions, and escape from reality.

This Alcoholism essay endeavors to delve into the multifaceted aspects of alcoholism, seeking to understand its origins, impact on mental and physical health, and the social ramifications it bears. Unraveling the complexities of this affliction demands an empathetic lens and a dedication to unearth the underlying causes rather than resorting to judgment.

What is Alcoholism? 

Alcoholism, a haunting specter within the realm of human behavior, is an intricate and multifaceted disorder. At its core, it transcends a mere dependence on alcohol and morphs into a relentless compulsion that hijacks the individual’s life. This complex condition goes beyond indulgence, evolving into a sinister force that corrodes physical health, erodes emotional well-being, and fractures social connections.

At the heart of alcoholism lies a profound struggle with self and circumstance. Often rooted in a desperate attempt to cope with life’s trials, alcohol becomes an illusory escape, offering temporary relief from pain or anxiety. Yet, this elusive respite ultimately leads to a treacherous cycle of addiction, wherein the afflicted individual finds themselves ensnared within the clutches of an insidious vice.

Alcoholism takes on many faces, affecting individuals regardless of age, race, or background. Its origins can be as diverse as the people it ensnares, stemming from genetic predispositions, environmental factors, or the burden of unresolved trauma.

This affliction strikes not just the body but also the mind, impairing judgment and distorting reality. Relationships crumble, dreams wither, and responsibilities fade as the person’s world revolves ever more tightly around the next drink.

Understanding the intricate web of alcoholism calls for compassion, education, and a collective commitment to support those afflicted. By unraveling its complexities, we pave the way for effective prevention, intervention, and treatment. Only then can we, as a society, embark on the journey towards healing and liberation from the suffocating grasp of alcoholism.

The Problem of Alcoholism

The problem of alcoholism looms like a dark cloud over society, casting a long and pervasive shadow on countless lives. Beyond its individual impact, alcoholism reverberates through families, communities, and entire nations, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. This pressing issue goes beyond the realm of personal choice; it is a public health concern that demands urgent attention and comprehensive solutions.

At its core, alcoholism is a chronic disease, cunningly weaving its way into the lives of those susceptible. The deceptive allure of alcohol masks the sinister reality of its addictive grasp, often leading individuals down a path of no return. The consequences are staggering, affecting physical health, mental well-being, and socio-economic stability.

Families suffer the emotional toll, witnessing their loved ones transform before their eyes, torn between love and despair. Communities grapple with the burden of increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and a rise in alcohol-related accidents and crime rates.

Addressing the problem of alcoholism requires a multi-faceted approach. It starts with education and awareness, breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction and fostering understanding and empathy. Accessible and effective treatment options must be made available, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.

Additionally, proactive measures such as regulating alcohol sales, implementing strict drunk-driving laws, and promoting responsible drinking habits can aid in reducing the prevalence of alcoholism.

Conquering the problem of alcoholism demands collective action, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to support those battling this insidious foe. By joining hands, we can bring hope and healing to countless lives, forging a future where the clutches of alcoholism loosen their grip, and individuals find their way back to the light of recovery.

Teenagers Alcoholism

The specter of alcoholism extends its malevolent reach even to the tender hearts and impressionable minds of teenagers, creating a troubling and distinct facet of this pervasive issue. Adolescence, a period of exploration and self-discovery, becomes marred by the allure of alcohol, drawing in young souls who seek acceptance, escape, or rebellion.

Teenage alcoholism goes beyond mere experimentation; it represents a dangerous gateway to a lifetime of addiction and hardships. Vulnerable to peer pressure and societal influences, adolescents may succumb to the illusion that alcohol offers a passage to maturity or popularity. However, this perilous path leads to a devastating collision between developing bodies, fragile minds, and the potent effects of alcohol.

The consequences of teenage alcoholism are far-reaching, inflicting irreparable damage on physical health, cognitive abilities, and emotional well-being. Academic performance suffers, relationships with family and friends become strained, and aspirations take a backseat to the relentless pursuit of the next drink.

Understanding and addressing teenage alcoholism requires a compassionate and proactive approach. Parents, educators, and communities must engage in open conversations about the dangers of alcohol, fostering a supportive environment where adolescents feel comfortable seeking help without judgment.

Raising awareness about the early signs of alcohol abuse and providing access to counseling and treatment are critical steps in curbing this alarming trend. Moreover, promoting alternative avenues for self-expression and building resilience can steer teenagers away from the allure of alcohol.

Together, we must rally to protect the dreams and futures of our youth, creating a society where teenage alcoholism is but a faded memory, replaced by a generation empowered to embrace life’s challenges with strength, clarity, and determination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, alcoholism remains a formidable adversary, inflicting widespread damage on individuals and societies alike. Its complex and insidious nature demands a multifaceted response, rooted in empathy, education, and support. We must shatter the chains of stigma surrounding addiction and foster an environment where seeking help is embraced and not condemned.

Prevention is paramount, involving early intervention and comprehensive awareness campaigns. Equally crucial is the establishment of accessible treatment programs, offering a lifeline to those ensnared by alcohol’s grip. By uniting as a society, we can create a compassionate support network, igniting a beacon of hope for individuals on their journey to recovery and ensuring that the darkness of alcoholism recedes, replaced by a brighter, healthier future for all.

Introduction

The presence of an alcoholic or substance abuser is a family that leaves an imprint on the relationships inside and outside of a family, as well as on the child development and the mental health of an abuser’s family members. In this paper, the impact of abuse on the external relationships and the influence of past experience on current behavior is studied and the examples witnessed by the author are discussed.

Effects of the Family Problem on External Relationships

Considering the fact that alcohol and substance abuse is a remarkably widespread problem, it can be said for sure that almost everyone has been either affected by it directly or contacted with the affected individuals on a daily basis (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 2015). It is known that substance abuse causes such problems as co-dependence, domestic violence, and disorders of child development. In addition to these consequences, the presence of an alcoholic or substance abuser in a family has a strong negative impact on the relationships outside of the family. My personal experience confirms this notion.

The need to cover the abuser often has a strong impact on outside relationships. For instance, some of my acquaintances, who have an alcoholic parent, were not able to invite friends to their homes, talk about their family or make long-term plans in their childhood years. It has lead to restraint, loneliness, and unwillingness to communicate with peers. As the psychologist Susan Forward noted, a child of a substance abuser must always be on guard to prevent themselves from revealing the truth to strangers (Forward, 2010, p. 72).

This work is energy-consuming, which may make a child limit contacts with non-family or stop them altogether. The same problem exists for the spouses of abusers. The non-alcoholic parents of my acquaintances had to solve everyday tasks such as accepting visitors, asking a day off at work to take care of the abuser, talking to distant relatives without mentioning the abuse, etc.

Leaving with an abuser leads to deep psychological consequences. None of the people affected by abuse, whom I ever knew, were psychologically stable. Many of them had anxiety, which made their relationships with other people complicated. A relative of mine, having lived forty years with an alcoholic husband, started drinking herself, which made her stop all contacts outside of a family.

The Link Between Current Behavior and Past Experience

The psychological consequences mentioned above usually have a long-lasting effect. It is especially true for children, whose personality has to form in the conditions of domestic violence and an unhealthy atmosphere at home . A close relative of mine is an adult child of an alcoholic father, and the origins of her current behavior can be easily tracked to her childhood experience. Being hateful to alcohol, she has married an alcoholic man with an obsessive idea to “re-educate” him, which often happens to abuse survivors. All my acquaintances with similar experience have trouble expressing feelings, arguing with someone with authority, proving their point, and managing stress; these problems are the outcomes of living with an abuser. Thus, even after several decades, the experience earned in childhood still influences the behavior of abuse survivors.

Conclusion

Substance abuse in a family affects the relationships not only inside but also outside the family because of the need for family members to cover an abuser. It also causes psychological disorders that continue to impact the behavior of abuse survivors even decades after separation from the abuser

References

Fischer, J., & Lyness, K.P. (2005) Families coping with alcohol and substance abuse. In P.C. McKenry, S. J. Price (Eds.), Families & change: coping with stressful events and transitions (pp. 155-178). Thousand Oaks, California: Sage Publications. Web.

Forward, Susan. (2010). Toxic parents: Overcoming their hurtful legacy and reclaiming your life. New York City, New York: Random House. Web.

National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2015). Alcohol facts and statistics. Web.

Single parent is defined as a parent of either sex, who brings up or cares for their children, without the involvement of another parent. According to the US Census figure for 2006, there were almost 13 million single parent families in US. The paper will provide a category for single parents, depending on whether the parent is an alcoholic, drinker and abstainer. The paper will accordingly give classifications as: single parent alcoholics, single parent social drinkers and single parent teetotalers or abstainers. Each category is discussed in detail and the rationality for the categorization is provided.

The category ‘single parent alcoholics’ is a very tragic phenomenon that exists among many single parents. In this category, the single parent, either the father or the mother is a chronic alcoholic and heavily uses alcohol and other substances. I have observed that some single parents from the poorer sections of the society and this includes a majority of Blacks, can be placed in this category. I have also observed that many single alcoholic parents are Black women who have been divorced or abandoned.

These people consume alcohol as a form of support and become totally dependant on it. The effect of an alcoholic parent on family finance is terrible and the family usually ends up living on support. The effect on children is equally bad, as they do not have any role models to look up to. A higher percentage of such children take up to drugs, alcohol, crime and other unsocial behavior. There is also a higher tendency for such children to drop out from schools before completing their education.

The category of ‘single parent social drinkers’ includes parents who consume moderate amounts of alcohol once in a while, at parties and social events. I have observed that a vast majority of single parents are social drinkers. These people are successful professionals who have been divorced or their spouses have died. Single parents in this category lead a healthy lifestyle, are employed or have their own businesses. Children of such parents are well balanced and have a better chance of keeping away from alcohol or drugs. The children go to school or college and manage to a lead productive life.

The last category is ‘single parent teetotalers or abstainers. People from this category have either given up drinking or never drank alcohol. I have observed that many people in this category do not drink because of religious reasons or because they do not like the substance. I have also observed in a few cases that some people do not drink because they have seen their parents or a close relative become alcoholics. A majority of children of such single parents do not take to drugs, alcohol and other substances. The children grow up to be successful professionals and make a career as doctors, pastors, engineers and other professions.

I have provided a categorization of single parents, based on their alcohol consumption. Such a categorization helps in developing a better understanding of various issues that effects single parents. Organizations can offer better counseling and therapy to single parents who are alcoholic and measures such as employment, group therapy and others can be provided. Single parents who are social drinkers and who are abstainers are better placed in life and they can be counseled for help in remarriage, health and other problems. The categorization can be used as a broad reference and can be supported with demographics.

Introduction

As an event analyzed, the local open Alcoholics Anonymous meeting will be demonstrated. Following the experience gained in the process of interaction with the participants of therapy, certain conclusions are drawn up regarding the timeline and the resources needed for this purpose. To consider all the stages of work comprehensively and realize the set goals, it is required to study the specifics of the group’s work and its dynamics. Based on these facts, it is possible to draw up an appropriate plan for assessing the effectiveness of the work done and the potential benefits for the members of the meeting.

Timeline for Completing the Project

To begin with, the evaluation of the attended meeting will be based on its effectiveness. To describe the details seen and assess the merits and demerits of the group work, it will take several days to compile a detailed plan. As practice shows, the awareness of the problem “can have a significant benefit to the modern counseling field;” therefore, the results of the program are likely to be evaluated positively (Stone, Conteh, & Francis, 2017, p. 132).

Nevertheless, the activity of the group members will be analyzed, which will also take some time (about a day). The search for justifications can take several days since relevant academic sources need to be found and considered. Upon completion of the preparatory work, therapeutic sessions will be completed, which will take about one week. Each session will be equal to one meeting, but more time will be needed to analyze the results obtained (at least one day). Based on the work done, it will be possible to evaluate the benefits of therapeutic sessions in the context of group meetings and provide recommendations on potentially useful resources.

Algorithm of Actions

During the first meeting, records will be taken to receive the comprehensive picture of the event and not to forget crucial nuances. Further, the group interaction process will be analyzed, and the activity of individual team members will be considered as a factor influencing the effectiveness of the work conducted. Different evaluation criteria will be given since, as Kuerbis and Tonigan (2018) note, the social environment is an essential component determining the outcome of group therapies.

Once the baseline correlations are compiled, and preliminary results are obtained regarding leadership style, ethical issues, and other aspects, the plan of therapeutic sessions will be composed. Based on the performed activities, the effectiveness of the group approach to the treatment of alcohol addiction will be evaluated, as well as the knowledge base that is used in the modern practice of psychologists.

Necessary Resources

As resources that will be valuable in the context of the meeting analysis, the opinions of the program organizers may be taken into account for competent performance evaluation. Also, academic resources can be used where information is collected on the types of group therapy and its effect on subconscious behavioral motives. Wendt and Gone (2017) confirm that joint meetings enhance the degree of trust to one another and form a sense of spiritual responsibility. Also, the type of event will be evaluated to have an idea of ​​its purpose – educational, supportive, or another one. The facts of therapeutic sessions application should be found to consider the methods of introducing appropriate interventions and their effect. Having all these data, it is possible to perform all the work efficiently and as quickly as possible.

References

Kuerbis, A., & Tonigan, J. S. (2018). More than taking a chair: The perceived group social dynamics of alcoholics anonymous related to changes in spiritual practices. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 36(3),1-16. Web.

Stone, D. A., Conteh, J. A., & Francis, J. D. (2017). Therapeutic factors and psychological concepts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Journal of Counselor Practice, 8(2), 120-135. Web.

Wendt, D. C., & Gone, J. P. (2017). Group therapy for substance use disorders: A survey of clinician practices. Journal of Groups in Addiction & Recovery, 12(4), 243-259. Web.

The community agency the meeting of which I have visited is the Palatine club. It holds monthly district meetings for people who have problems with alcohol. During the meetings, they share their experience and hopes. Nothing special is needed to become a member of the meetings at the Palatine club the only demand is the desire to stop drinking (Stoudemire, 2012). Except for that, members are not supposed to pay any fees or dues. It is not connected with sects, politics or any other institutions and does not want to be involved in any conflicts, which is also not encouraged among the members. The agency is self-supporting and non-professional. It does not discuss any outside issues.

The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings are held to gather the members of the community who have particular problems. That is why the majority of them are closed. Still, everyone is allowed to attend open ones. AA a fellowship is for people of different nationalities and sexes. It has its own 12 traditions, which describe the way the Palatine club maintains its operations (The Palatine Club, n.d.). The mission of the agency is to stay sober. They help each other to be determined and follow the right way. AA wants to carry the message to those who still have problems with alcohol and suffer because of them. They believe in the authority of a loving God, who can help them in the recovery. As I saw, this faith makes them feel united and more empathetic.

Even though the Palatine club is not a professional organization that can gain support from the government to reach better outcomes, its work does contribute to the health of the community. AA designed a group of principles (Twelve Steps) that its members follow to cope with alcoholism and become happy. They are based on spirituality, which presupposes that no medical influence is present. Still, the agency presupposes that its service centers can hire social workers who can provide additional services to the clients. With their help as well as by agency’s own forces, the Palatine club helps the clients to expel the obsession to drink. Coping with alcoholism, the members are sure to improve their health and gain better living conditions, which also affects health positively.

On the basis of the mentioned information, it occurs to be clear that the Palatine club serves the clients who are willing to stop drinking regardless their nation, gender, age and status.

AA declines any outside contributions, but the potential role for nurses within the Palatine club can be considered. They can conduct tests and questionnaires to find out what health problems the clients have and which of them are caused by alcohol. They can also propose additional ways of treatment for those who need one and monitor the condition of the agency members. The nurses can also offer other people to refer to the Palatine club if they are willing to cope with such problem.

Personally I believe that attending this meeting was a great experience. I saw different people where who were searching for new information that could inspire them to continue following the path of recovery and the steps designed by the agency. While speaking, people were rather emotional, which proved that they are highly concerned. They reacted to the speeches and seemed to be very united. Thus, I believe that the Palatine club is doing good for the whole community and helps its clients to become healthier.

References

The Palatine Club (n.d.). About AA. Web.

Stoudemire, C. (2012). AA meeting [Video file]. Web.