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As the new year begins, many of us reflect on our habits, goals, and aspirations. One common resolution is to reduce or cut out alcohol for a month, and for many, that resolution takes the shape of “Dry January.” Whether you’re aiming to detox after the indulgent holiday season or simply want to take a break from drinking, participating in Dry January can be a transformative experience. Here’s why you might want to give it a try and how to make the most of this alcohol-free month.
What is Dry January?Dry January is a month-long challenge where participants abstain from alcohol for the entirety of January. It was originally started by the UK-based charity Alcohol Change UK in 2013 as a way to raise awareness about alcohol consumption and its effects on health. Since then, it has gained global popularity, with people from all walks of life joining the movement to reset their relationship with alcohol.
Are You Ready to Change?
Benefits of Dry January
While the challenge may seem daunting, there are many benefits to taking part in Dry January. Here are just a few:
- Health Benefits Cutting out alcohol for a month gives your liver a chance to recover and regenerate. Alcohol can take a toll on your liver and digestive system, and a month off can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and support detoxification. Plus, it’s an opportunity to improve your sleep quality and boost your immune system, both of which can be impacted by alcohol consumption.
- Weight Loss and Better Eating Habits Alcohol is high in calories with little nutritional value. For those looking to shed some holiday weight, Dry January can help kickstart the process. Without alcohol’s empty calories and the typical late-night snacking that accompanies drinking, many participants find that they lose weight or gain better control over their eating habits.
- Improved Mental Health Regular alcohol consumption can negatively affect your mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. By abstaining for a month, many people find that their mood improves, they feel less stressed, and they have more energy to tackle their day-to-day tasks. It’s a great way to reset your mental state and build better coping mechanisms.
- Financial Savings Alcohol can be expensive, especially if you enjoy dining out or buying bottles for home consumption. By taking part in Dry January, you’ll likely notice a significant reduction in your monthly spending, which can be used to invest in other aspects of your life—whether it’s a gym membership, travel fund, or a fun experience.
- Breaking Habits and Setting Boundaries For many people, drinking has become a routine part of socializing or unwinding after a long day. Dry January offers an opportunity to break these habits and explore new, healthier ways of spending your time. Whether it’s focusing on fitness, meditation, or diving into hobbies you’ve been meaning to pursue, Dry January provides a chance to find new ways to unwind.
- Health Benefits Cutting out alcohol for a month gives your liver a chance to recover and regenerate. Alcohol can take a toll on your liver and digestive system, and a month off can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and support detoxification. Plus, it’s an opportunity to improve your sleep quality and boost your immune system, both of which can be impacted by alcohol consumption.
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The holiday season can be a tremendous occasion for those who are suffering from a substance use disorder, or any disorder for that matter. Speaking with one person, they said, “My holiday dinner was good. I celebrated it with family and friends, and they smiled.” Knowing and realizing that those with a network support system are in place during the holiday season is a significant factor in their treatment or recovery. Not lapsing or relapsing is crucial. However, when talking with other individuals during the holidays about their substance usage, some would say, “It was minimal use of drugs over the holidays,” which, for some, is a fantastic way to be able to decrease and reduce the amount of alcohol consumed or opioid used.
Yes, the holidays can be a trigger for those who struggle to stay away from using. Not all holidays are suitable for some people. Some people struggle with trauma, bad memories, and abusive situations. For me, my father died the day after Christmas in 1991. If I were still a drinker, alcohol would be my comfort during the holidays, but I have learned to cope in other ways by not using drugs or alcohol. During the holiday season, it is okay to speak with a licensed clinical therapist or a certified substance abuse counselor about how best to cope with the holidays and not use. Such strategies as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing can address thoughts behind using drugs and ways to change behaviors during the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays. Other tips can be not isolating ourselves, overspending, having a support network in place, attending an AA or NA, and practicing self-care. You matter.Are You Ready to Change?
One of the ways to avoid not using drugs or alcohol during the holidays is simply not planning to engage in the illicit use of opiates by avoiding negative people, places, and things. One individual I spoke with said, “I will enjoy time with my family. They will hold me accountable.” Others have said that they will go out with family and friends for dinner and will have a relapse plan in place. For this to work, the plan must be intentional. Like our treatment plan, recovery must be deliberate to see positive results. Also, just being open and honest about discussing how to handle triggers, cravings, and urges during the holiday season is a great way to get to the root of any problem.Finally, I wanted to end this post by not only talking about using alcohol and drugs during the holidays but also suicide as well during the holidays. One of the most prominent destructive factors in America today is the rate of suicidal tendencies in our country. It appears that the attempt to commit suicide and the action itself have increased in recent years, and some of the factors could be the growing increase of opioid addiction to Fentanyl and the adverse effects of social media among young adults. When a person is facing committing the act, whether or not they have a plan, method, or intention, they should always be taken seriously and not dismissed as something not worth investigating. The individual struggling with this concept will need support from a professional in the mental health field to address their needs at that time. “Suicide, a major public health concern, takes around 800,000 lives globally every year and is the second leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults” (Martinez et al., 2020).
At this point in our society, active listening skills and empathy will come into play as it is an all-hands-on-deck for those professionals in the mental health field to help decrease this epidemic during the holiday season. Active listening will be one of the keys to getting as much information as possible. In this situation where someone may be thinking about suicide, if the human services worker ignores the details, there may be lost information crucial to helping the individual to survive the event. The human services worker must be cognitive, understanding, and receptive to hearing what the person is saying. Not only that, but the worker must also be empathetic, considerate, and concerned not just during the holiday season but every day!
Reference:
Martinez-Ales, G., Hernandez-Calle, D., Khauli, N., & Keyes, K. M. (2020). Why are suicide rates increasing in the United States? Towards a multilevel reimagination of suicide prevention. Behavioral neurobiology of suicide and self-harm, 1-23.
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Self-efficacy is described as an individual’s belief in his or her capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments, and also, and it reflects confidence in the ability to exert control over one’s own motivation, behavior, and social environment (Feist, J. et al., 2021). How does self-efficacy impact personality? It may impact personality and determine whether or not a person believes they can accomplish their goals. If the individual has a strong personality, they may be more motivated to achieve goals, reflecting their behavior. Since self-efficacy reflects a belief and a sense of confidence in whether individuals can use their capacity to achieve tasks and is related to the level of motivation, actions, and psychological state (Xiong, H. et al. 2020) all humans in any field of work, career, or endeavor can gain insight into their strengths and abilities if they will only tap in. An individual with a substance disorder can increase their self-efficacy by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles to address thinking patterns, feelings, and behaviors and also implementing motivational interviewing (MI) to change unwanted behaviors to more positive behaviors.
Are you ready to change?
References:
Feist, J., Feist, G. J., & Roberts, T. (2021). Theories of personality (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill
Xiong, H., Yi, S., & Lin, Y. (2020). The psychological status and self-efficacy of nurses during COVID-19 outbreak: a cross-sectional survey. INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing, 57, 0046958020957114.
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Sleep deprivation is a general term to describe a state caused by inadequate quantity or quality of sleep (Kalat, 2019). Sleep is as essential to the human body as food and water, but many do not get enough sleep. Years ago, there was a time when the television stations went off the air, and there was no more programming. The major channels, such as NBC, CBS, and ABC, went off around 1:00 am. There was no social media at that time; computers and everything in most cities were shut down.
We live in a different world today. Society is up 24/7, nonstop. It is a wonder why sleep deprivation is so common today, from college students engaging in all night activities to those working overnights, those playing video games late at night, and those just watching television until 5:00 am. This could lead to why people experience insomnia. Insomnia is a common sleep disorder. With insomnia, you may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting good-quality sleep (Kalat, 2019). The emphasis here is on ‘good-quality sleep ‘. Because there are many stimuli in the world today, individuals’ minds are constantly racing, even while sleeping. Most Americans miss this critical success in life. Getting a good night’s sleep.
As a result, when a person is sleep-deprived, it could lead to severe issues. I remember working a 12-hour overnight shift from 7 pm to 7 am and then driving 4 hours that morning for a Thanksgiving family dinner later that afternoon. When a friend asked how the drive was coming down, the response was, “I am not sure; I slept the entire trip.” I was awake but remembered nothing because I was tired and sleep-deprived. I was not thinking about putting my wife and daughters at risk of having an accident by falling asleep at the wheel. When we are sleep deprived it could lead to fear and anxiety.
Are you ready to change?
Eliminating fear and anxiety is one of the biggest challenges running out of control in our nation today. A significant pandemic, inflation, high gas and food prices, student loan depth, affordable housing, racial tensions, opioid and fentanyl addiction, and more have arrested the hearts and minds of most Americans and have kept them in the bondage of fear and worry. Fear can be a powerful emotion and, if not kept in check, can ruin a person’s lifestyle. However, the things that most people usually fear do not come to fruition. The acronym of F.E.A.R. is False Evidence Appearing Real.
However, how do we eliminate fear, stress, and anxiety and reduce panic attacks? Having exceptionally high levels of any of these emotions for an extended period can be dangerous to the human body, both physically and mentally. Panic disorders are a prime example as characterized by frequent periods of anxiety and occasional attacks of rapid breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling or PTSD, which is marked by frequent distressing recollections (flashbacks) and nightmares about the traumatic event, avoidance of reminders of it, and vigorous reactions to noises and other stimuli (Kalat, 2019). The potential for a healthier and wiser world, with fewer suicidal attempts, is within our grasp if we can foster peace and tranquility instead of fear and anxiety.
Reference:
Kalat, J. W. (2019). Biological Psychology (13th ed.).
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Dual-diagnosis is very important to understand when someone is struggling with addiction, mainly because when a person arrives for treatment at a hospital, residential treatment facility, or a partial hospitalization program, it is essential to present the correct diagnosis. It appears, at times, that a mental health disorder can be misdiagnosed as a substance use disorder and vice versa. It is also essential that the professionals in the field have the highest and best training available to be proficient in their understanding of dual diagnosis and present an accurate diagnosis for the individual to receive proper treatment, including counseling services and pharmacology methods.
Moreover, in the past, having worked in an ASAM 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) as well as an ASAM 3.1 twenty-eight-day residential substance abuse program with individuals with dual-diagnosis or another phrase that could be used, co-occurring disorder. These individuals were diagnosed with substance use disorders such as alcohol use disorder, cocaine use disorder, cannabis use disorder, and opioid use disorder, to name a few. As it relates to mental health, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder were diagnosed with these clients. If these clients were misdiagnosed in any way, it would have had a detrimental effect on their recovery process, and treatment would have been ineffective. When clients are misdiagnosed by those who call themselves professionals, this could easily be a liability and injustice to the clients and their families, resulting in harmful, unwanted behaviors.
“Further, clients with co-occurring disorders are at increased risk for incarceration, less able to handle personal finances, have a weaker support system, and are more prone to depression and feelings of hopelessness” (Doweiko, 2019). So, the question may be asked, “How can co-occurring disorders impact the addiction cycle?” One who is struggling with any addiction, whether chemical or behavioral, knows how difficult it is to get free from something they do not want to do. When talking with individuals who are addicted to a disorder, many have said, “I want to be free. I do not want to live like this.” They can not get free because they are in a continuous cycle, non-stop, that goes around and around.
Are you ready to change?
In comparison, imagine someone having a substance use disorder and dealing with depression or anxiety. Not only does this individual have a bad habit that they do not want to be in, but if diagnosed with, say, depression, now there is no hope, no light at the end of the tunnel, and it can end in a life of no purpose which may lead to other issues like low self-esteem and low self-worth. It is like going around in a circle of darkness, not knowing when it will stop. How can this individual be helped? What can be done to resolve this issue? “Some require hospitalization or a detox program to break the cycle of addiction. Some require medications. Others need social skill training or stress management training. Some may need life-skill education, such as money management or job interviewing preparations” (Clinton & Scalise, 2013).
Finally, there is a remedy to the cycle of addiction and the population we serve with dual diagnosis. Having a spiritual component, along with therapy or counseling sessions, may give a person some hope to break free from the cycle of addiction. Positive change can happen in addictive behavior. It is essential to know that when dealing with someone who has a dual diagnosis, it is best to treat the substance use disorder first before treating the mental health diagnosis, or more recently, many professionals are now treating these issues at the same time rather than separately.
For more information for yourself, a friend or a family member please visit https://nida.nih.gov/
References:
Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.
Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/co-occurring-disorders-health-conditions
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To begin with, the components of pharmacology are insightful as they relate to the scientific effects of drugs and chemicals on an addict’s physical body. Understanding this concept can enlighten mental health professionals, substance abuse workers, and family members of an addicted individual with a different perspective on the root cause of addiction and how to better assist them in recovery by studying these substances.
Second, to get a better understanding of addiction, the effects of a substance, and the physical and psychological effects of withdrawal, one must be knowledgeable of the different classes of drugs or drug schedules. “Drugs, substances, and certain chemicals used to make drugs are classified into five (5) distinct categories or schedules depending upon the drug’s acceptable medical use and the drug’s abuse or dependency potential. The abuse rate is a determinate factor in the scheduling of the drug; for example, Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and the potential to create severe psychological and physical dependence. As the drug schedule changes– Schedule II, Schedule III, etc., so does the abuse potential– Schedule V drugs represent the least potential for abuse” (DEA. 10 July 2018).
Next, in using different types of drugs, there are also different routes to ingest the chemical. Drugs can be smoked, injected into the skin, sniffed, snorted, or taken orally. Most addicts who want the quick fix or quick high will take the drug intravenously into their veins. As a result, the chemical will reach the brain faster than most other methods. Overall, the preferred method of use mainly depends on the severity of the addiction, the outcome wanted, and the experience of the drug user.
Are you ready to change?
However, “One serious disadvantage of the intravenous method of drug administration is that it does not allow the body very much time to adapt to the foreign chemical, and thus the individual is at risk for a severe adverse reaction to the compound within seconds of it being administered” (Doweiko, 2019). No matter what route the person with the disorder consumes the substance, the main goal is to get high and get that euphoric feeling to escape reality. Yes, some ways of consuming the substance can be deadly and could lead to physical problems such as cardiac arrest, while unfortunately, other methods of using may not be as harmful.
More importantly, what can be learned is a greater understanding of those who struggle with addiction, chemical or behavioral. As a substance abuse counselor working in a Methadone clinic, there are individuals every day who struggle with opioid use disorder and other drug addictions. As we sit in the office having a counseling session, I have heard so many say the same thing out of their mouths. “I hate how people look at me when I come here or leave this place feeling stigmatized.” With the feeling of being unworthy because of a disorder, the individual has little to no self-esteem or self-worth. Sometimes, patients will not lift their heads while talking because they feel judged.
Finally, human service workers, counselors, therapists, and mental health workers must understand that this is mainly a disease of the brain or the medical model and, in some cases, may be defined as a moral failure depending on a worldview. In any case, addiction kills, robs, and destroys human life, the family unit, and everything that is connected to it. Understanding the scientific effects of drugs and chemicals on an addict’s physical body and brain will enlighten the treatment process in their recovery.
For more information for yourself, a friend or a family member please visit https://www.samhsa.gov/
References:
DEA. 10 July, 2018. Drug Scheduling. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/ information/drug-scheduling on 10 June, 2024
Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.
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The question can be asked: Does the disease of the human spirit fit or does not fit into specific models of addiction? “In short, those who misuse substances are viewed by adherents of the spiritual model as attempting to gain the benefits of spirituality without the long journey necessary to achieve the peaceful sense of unity with the universe and the Higher Power of their choice” (Doweiko, 2019).
Substances, when used or misused, will take a person on a “high” like no other. Many individuals use drugs for that very purpose: to escape reality, to live in a fantasy land where all their dreams come true. Most people like the feeling of being high, the euphoric sensation. If they are feeling down, depressed, or lonely, they can take a pill or snort a line of cocaine to take away the bad feeling. The sad part is that the feeling is only temporary. Could it be that society uses drugs to substitute for what they need and want?
Are you ready to change?
The disease of the human spirit may fit into the Moral/Volitional Model, where spirituality can fulfill humanity’s desires and needs. What is it that people are missing in their lives and could be in such denial? Most seek comfort and love but will never find it in a bottle, pipe, or other substances. A man was created for one reason: to have a relationship, fellowship, and intimacy with his higher power. What some people with a substance use disorder are looking for in substances may be found in a higher power. Yes, in most cases, the addicted person is spiritually bankrupt and lost.
One of the reasons addictions are so powerful is because they are a form of idolatry. When we become addicted to our drug of choice, habit of choice, or behavior of choice, we become slaves to that object or thing. Once a slave, people with an addiction will obey their master. At that point, the person with an addiction will worship and bow down to whatever behavior or drug is in front of him and engage in whatever actions his or her mind tells him to do.
Finally, Clinton and Scalise (2013) state that the models of addictions are “The disease model, genetic model, biological model, choice model, personality model, coping/social learning model, sociocultural model, and spiritual model” ( pg, 27-28).
References:
Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.
Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.
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To begin with, there were a few takeaways from understanding and learning about the addiction models. As human beings, we can fall into some addiction, whether it is a shopping addiction, spending addiction, gambling addiction, porn addiction, or a workaholic working many hours at the office, whether chemical or behavioral addictive patterns. Furthermore, with so many different types of addictions, various kinds of models can treat the addiction.
Second, the Volitional Model may fit more into a worldview for some who believe addictive behavior is mainly a personal choice and responsibility. We can go back to the story of Adam and Eve; even though they were tempted, individual choices and decisions were made on their own accord. However, studying the science of addiction, many have come to realize that addictive behavior affects the circuitry of the brain and the reward system that increases dopamine, making the addiction more challenging to break, causing the Disease Model of the brain. Both are true when it comes to addiction. However, if I combine the two models into one, it would look like the Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual Model.
Next, this model encompasses several factors that would benefit a person with an addiction in achieving abstinence in whatever addiction they may be dealing with and assist in their recovery process. “Addiction is considered as having a myriad of causations and contributing factors, which provide multiple pathways to recovery.” (Clinton & Scalise, 2013). In discussing the essential features of the three models of bio, psycho, and social, many insights can be learned about an individual’s addictive behavior and how it can impact their lives.
Are you ready to change?
When looking at the life of a person with a substance use disorder, we must investigate their family background and the history of any drug use in the family. This is where bio-comprehensive assessments are so critical in the human services field so that workers can adequately identify signs of abuse either from the maternal or parental side of the individual’s parents. For example, if a father and mother have alcohol use disorder and have dysfunctional parenting skills, it is most likely that the child may end up being an alcoholic. Sometimes, alcoholism in the home results in domestic abuse, which could traumatize a child. He or she may grow up as an adult and turn to drink to numb the pain and physically abuse their children or spouse.
Comparative, this could and does lead to psychological damage to an individual growing up in that type of environment. Not only is the individual dealing with a destructive substance, but now must deal with possible trauma, anger, bitterness, and depression. If a licensed professional counselor sees the individual, this person could be diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder, having both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. The social model of addiction aspect could be a form of learned behavior, both positive and negative. Social or environmental habits are formed and developed by using substances that can be negative. It can also benefit a person by having a peer support system who is looking to decrease addictive behavior and who wants to stop.
Finally, Clinton and Scalise (2013) state that the models of addictions are “The disease model, genetic model, biological model, choice model, personality model, coping/social learning model, sociocultural model, and spiritual model” ( pg, 27-28).
References:
Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.
Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment – Ember Recovery Center. https://emberrecovery.com/co-occurring-disorder-treatment/
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The relationship between abuse of substances and substance use disorders, commonly known as (SUDs) are clearly defined as two separate occurrences. No one who has ever tried using substances or injecting chemicals into their body wanted to end up being an addict. What was a pleasurable moment and joy over one weekend with some friends became a 30-year journey of pain, discomfort, and hopelessness. How do some individuals in our society get to that point in life of abuse, and some don’t?
“One individual might use chemicals to express a previously forbidden impulse, while another does so to cope with emotional or physical pain. Some choose to use chemicals to explore alternative realities, while others seek a substance-induced feeling of euphoria in place of the mundane reality in which they live. For some, substance use offers a way to escape from perceived injustices at the hands of fate, satisfy their curiosity about the effects of the chemical, or as a sign of rebellion, social connection, or simply for fun, just to mention a few reasons a person might initiate substance use” (Doweiko, 2019).
Second, to discern the differences between abuse and SUD, we must know the definitions of the two words. Drug abuse is “Simply defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substances or habitual activity to alter one’s mood. People abuse drugs to forget or not feel painful feelings such as loneliness, anxiety, depression, and anger.” (Clinton & Scalise, 2013, pg. 25). However, SUD can be defined as an individual who has been clinically diagnosed by a professional using a particular substance for some time with specific criteria in place.
Are you ready to change?
Next, some of the determining factors that distinguish one from the other are that an individual may engage in drug activities but not be physically dependent on the substance. Another is that an individual may abuse and neglect the limitation of the use. In contrast, someone with SUD may neglect the limitation of the substance and continue to use it as tolerance for the drug increases more and more. A person who is diagnosed with SUD may not be able to function properly without the substance due to the physical dependence of the substance. A person at this level will physically get sick if he or she does not use. A person who is only abusing substances may not have a high tolerance and is not heavily dependent on the substance.
For example, in our local area, cocaine fatalities drive record drug deaths. Our local area has also seen an increased number of drug-related deaths in 12 months. It appears that there are concerns. These difficult times could lead to individuals struggling with abuse and substance use disorder seeking a comfort or consoling place in drink and drugs and, as a result, putting their lives at risk. As a substance abuse counselor working at a Methadone clinic, it is believed that our local area has an estimated 9,000 people who are dependent on alcohol and between 4,000 to 5,000 users of opiates and crack cocaine.
Finally, our localities and nation as a whole are suffering from fears, anxiety, worries, and concerns about how to handle the drug crisis in America. Recently, involved in a town meeting the other day, the CEO of an Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) stated that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is coming down hard on Methadone clinics and opioid treatment programs to find a solution to decreasing drug use in our communities. Addictive behaviors of those struggling with substance misuse can be erased, and individuals can heal from the traumatic hurts and pain that lead to addiction.
For more information for yourself, a friend or a family member please visit https://www.samhsa.gov/
References:
Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.
Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.
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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.
For more information for yourself, a friend or a family member please visit https://www.aa.org
Recovery-Informed Education Group, LLC. "Driving Transformational Change for Lasting Impact."
"Driving Transformational Change for Lasting Impact."
Recovery-Informed Education Group, LLC. "Driving Transformational Change for Lasting Impact." 