To begin with, the social problem that would be considered is alcoholism in America. Yearly, the consumption of alcohol abuse and mistreatment results in more criminal justice and law enforcement expenses and significantly more of an increase in health care costs. Alcoholism affects almost every aspect of society, including a higher incidence of DUI, an increase in domestic violence, and an increase in behavioral health and mental health issues. 

Next, some of the internal issues related to these social problems are guilt, anxiety, shame, fear, grief, and depression. “Poor mental health associated with the COVID-19 pandemic may prompt the utilization of various coping behaviors, including alcohol use” (Eastman et al., 2021). Some external issues are home environment, community, and negative peer influence.

Third, however, what is the root cause of this addiction? “Is it internal with individuals who are dealing with sadness, isolation, and depression who need a drink to cope with reality to numb the emotional pain of thoughts of suicide or self-harm? There is a significant overlap in the motivations for non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and alcohol use” (Bresin & Mekawi, 2022).    

Are you ready to change?

Furthermore, there is no doubt that alcoholism has been a social problem from the colonial days to the present. Thus, alcoholism could be the reason why so many addicts of alcoholism are dealing with internal as well as external triggers in their lives today. 

Finally, possible solutions may be beneficial, such as hospitalization, detox centers, intensive outpatient treatment, and residential treatment. Nevertheless, the individual struggling with this social problem must want to get the necessary help. Suppose the individual does not get the help, refuses to get it, or is in denial of their habit. In that case, the cycle of alcoholism addiction will continue for generations to come.        

References:

Bresin, K., & Mekawi, Y. (2022). Different ways to drown out the pain: A meta-analysis of the association between nonsuicidal self-injury and alcohol use. Archives of suicide research, 26(2), 348-369.

Eastman, M. R., Finlay, J. M., & Kobayashi, L. C. (2021). Alcohol use and mental health among older American adults during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(8), 4222.

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