Alcoholism as a Major Social Issue - Research Paper Example

? Alcoholism: Causes and Treatment and Number] Alcoholism: Causes and Treatment The moderateconsumption of alcohol gives some health benefits in the adults of the older age groups but drinking in excessive amounts badly affects the health and the social life of an individual. Unfortunately, alcohol consumption is not only common amongst the adults but the younger generation is also the victim of this issue. This is due to the fact that once a person becomes addicted to alcohol; it is not easy to quit drinking owing to the dependency. The addiction of individuals to alcoholic drinks results in health related risks as well as social problems. According to the American Psychological Association (Feinstein, 2012), there are various factors that lead to alcoholism. These include; biopsychological, genetic, social/environmental and emotional factors. Alcoholism is a major social issue which results owing to many causes but this problem can be dealt with and overcome with a wide array of treatment options which range from medications to counseling sessions. Statistics of Alcoholism According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2012), there were around 133.4 million drunkards in the United States of America in the year 2011. Out of these, approximately 58.3 million that is 47% of the individuals above the age of 12 years were found to do binge drinking while 6.2% of the general population of the same age group were found to be drinking heavily. Similarly, individuals aged between 18 and 25 years were involved in binge drinking while 12.1% were heavy drinkers. The report also indicated that alcohol was used by 13.3% of the youths between the ages of 12 and 17 years. Furthermore, around 11.1% of individuals aged 12 years and above had driven under the influence of alcohol in 2010 at least once (Rinfrette, 2009). Despite of the fact that the statistics reveal a large number of people being involved in alcohol consumption, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reported that the alcohol usage in the United States has declined in recent years. The per capita consumption of alcohol by individuals above the age of 14 years has declined to 2.31 gallons from 2.75 gallons during the period of 1980 to 2007. Surveys performed on individuals of different age groups also show that elderly individuals, who are defined as people above the age of 65 years consume a lower amount of alcohol in comparison to the young adults. Federal surveys also reveal an overall reduction in the consumption of alcohol by young adults in the last few decades. This can be seen by the statistics which reveal that there has been a reduction in the consumption of alcohol in teenagers by almost 35 percent between the years 1979 and 2009. Surveys have also proven that there has been a great decline in the intake of alcohol by high school students over the years (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration., 2010). Causes of Alcoholism -Biopsychological Causes of Alcoholism Alcoholism is considered to be led to by many causes. There has always been a debate on the issue if alcoholism is genetically transferred to individuals or if environmental factors are known to lead to this habit. Genetic studies reveal that the genetic makeup of an individual plays an important and complicated role in alcoholism. Indeed, half of the total risk of turning into an alcoholic is associated with the genetics of a person. Genetic research shows that individuals whose parents or grandparents suffered from alcoholism have higher chances of adopting this disorder. Therefore, children whose parents are addicted to alcohol are at high risk to become alcoholic in comparison to other children (Ducci and Goldman 2008). Several studies have been performed on individuals, including twins and adopted children to find out if alcohol dependence is caused by genetic factors and to explore the percentage of the overall contribution of genetics in alcoholism. It was found out in studies that identical twins having identical genetic material (i.e. genomes) had higher chances of alcohol dependence than the fraternal twins, who share only fifty percent of their genome. Thus, these results clearly proved an effect of the genetics of an individual to the rates of alcoholism (Agrawal and Lynskey 2008). Similarly, some of the genetic disorders like schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder also increase the chances of the individuals to become alcoholics. This increased risk has been associated with genetic factors as well. Studies have indicated that alcoholism in individuals is mainly related to the genetic differences at 51 different chromosomal regions (Ducci and Goldman 2008). Various polymorphisms which have been noted to increase the susceptibility to alcoholism include differences in the cholinergic receptor and alcohol dehydrogenase 4 genes found on chromosome 4 whose impact occurs by changes to the dopamine recompense system. Gelernter and Kranzler (2009) conducted family studies to evaluate both addicted and non-alcoholic members of a family for the presence of alcoholism. Their studies provided convincing evidence to support the fact that the risk of alcohol dependence is strongly associated with genetic factors. Different cases were studied where a comparison was performed between adopted children and their real parents (with whom they resembled genetically) and the adopted children and their foster parents (with which they did not have any genetic resemblance). This comparative study highlighted the fact that adopted children were at a higher risk of being alcoholic if their real parents were involved in drinking rather than the foster parents. This clearly revealed the fact that the genetic makeup of a person is a significant underlying cause of alcoholism. Studies were also conducted on twins and these studies also proved that heredity plays a significant role in developing alcoholism. Role of Amygdala The amygdala is an area of the brain which plays an important role in the emotional aspects of needs and desires. This part also produces gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF). GABA and CRF are common neurotransmitters. The gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) together with the corticotropin releasing factor system are noted to be closely linked with alcohol dependence and are vital in the initiation of alcohol again during the period of withdrawal (Roberto et al, 2010). The amygdala plays a role in alcoholism and this had been proved by research which explains that the amygdala is smaller in individuals that have a history of alcoholism in their families. Brain Chemistry Drinking alcohol in excessive quantities results in signs which include loss of sensory reflexes and memory lapse. People face several problems in coordinating and judging things after the excessive consumption of alcohol. They cannot respond normally to the external stimuli and it is for this reason that they are not considered fit for driving. These changes in the behavior of an individual are owing to the way in which alcohol affects the central nervous system. Alcohol basically affects the chemistry of the brain by changing the levels of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers which are responsible for the transmission of vital information to all parts of the body and they control the behavior and the emotions of an individual. Alterations in their levels result in affecting the normal functioning of a person. Therefore brain chemistry is affected by alcoholism due to its influence on the neurotransmitters. The prefrontal cortex region has been identified to be particularly vulnerable to damage due to alcoholism. Alcoholism also results in the reduction of the white matter of the brain (Mayfield, Harris and Schuckit, 2008). GABA GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter which works to calm down the electrical activity in different parts of the brain and also plays an important role in the regulation of the excitation of the neural channels. Alcohol can act on the receptors of GABA and works towards enhancing the calming effect of GABA on the receptors. This results in an enhanced rate of the calming effect on the brain of the alcoholics. The long term usage of alcohol makes the brain addicted to alcohol for functioning properly. Therefore, when an individual quits drinking, he suffers from problems like emotional stress, anxiety, trembling and in the case of severe alcohol addiction; an individual may die owing to the excessive dependence of the brain on alcohol (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Serotonin Serotonin is also a vital chemical in the brain which acts as a neurotransmitter. It transmits information between the nerve cells and is important for regulation of behavior like sleeping, eating, relaxing or resting. The role of Serotonin is linked with the consumption of alcohol and it results in altering the normal levels of serotonin on the brain. Individuals consuming huge amounts of alcohol show different levels of brain serotonin, compared with the non-drinkers. Indeed, very high and abnormal levels are found in the individuals who are alcohol tolerant. This shows the disturbance produced in the levels of neurotransmitters by alcohol (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Dopamine (D2) Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which is linked with alcoholism. Dopamine is found in high levels in individuals with a prominent history of alcoholism in their family backgrounds. Alcoholism results in various impacts on the brain and it affects nerve cells and blood flow within the frontal lobe of the brain. Research also shows that an increase in the receptors of this neurotransmitter might slow down the behavioral responses to alcohol and prevent against alcoholism (Ducci and Goldman 2008) Social Causes of Alcoholism There are several social factors that encourage individuals to start drinking alcohol. Peer pressure and co-dependency are indicated as the most significant social factors leading to alcoholism. Individuals sitting in a group of friends who consume alcohol on a regular basis face peer pressure and are motivated to become a part of the drinking group. Friends put pressure on the other social group members and encourage them to drink by explaining its advantages. Drinking alcohol helps individuals to strengthen their social circle by gaining the trust of friends and enjoying sexual relationships. Alcoholics also claim that they drink alcohol to ignore the bad attitude of peers as they claim that they do not remember anything when they are drunk. The influence of peers plays an important role and there is a social expectation for an individual to take part in the group activities which motivates the non-drinkers to consume alcohol. With time, these individuals may end up being alcoholics as well. Therefore, peer pressure and co-dependency is an important social factor leading to alcoholism. (Langwith 2010). Another important social factor that promotes alcoholism is the advertisement of alcoholic beverages which boost individuals to try the product. These advertisements are aired on the television, radio, social websites, and billboards. These advertisements promote drinking as luxurious and explain the relaxation that is achieved by consuming alcohol (Langwith 2010). Emotional Cause of Alcoholism Emotional issues which may result in alcoholism include sexual abuse, depression, low self-esteem, mental stress as well as frustrations. Alcoholism results due to emotional problems because alcohol gives relaxation to the mind and body. Therefore, many people use alcohol as a way of coping with their unresolved issues. These emotional problems can range from self-esteem issues, inferiority complex, depression, family clashes to sexual abuse and other relationship issues. These emotional issues push an individual to start consuming alcohol for getting temporary relief from their problems and this is followed by addictive behavior (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Treatment There are a wide number of treatment options that are available for individuals who wish to quit drinking. Alcohol withdrawal is extremely difficult owing to the changes that are brought about by alcohol consumption to the neurotransmitters in the human body. High norepinephrine levels are produced during the period when an alcohol consumer stops drinking. This leads to feelings of agitation and anger which form the main withdrawal symptoms of alcoholism. If left unattended, this causes the individuals to consume more alcohol in order to release a greater amount of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin opioids to calm them down. It has also been noted smoking and drinking are two linked problems and it becomes very difficult to get rid of alcohol if the drinker is also a chain smoker (Langwith, 2010). Managing this condition forms an important part of the treatment and management of alcoholism. There are many approaches that are used to treat the issue of alcoholism but it needs to be understood that other addictions like smoking are also to be kept in mind and treated alongside. This is because smoking is an addiction which makes it difficult for an alcoholic to stop drinking. Psychotherapy and counselling is an important part of managing alcoholism. The most important step that helps recovering from alcohol dependence is to teach the alcoholics to admit their dependence because most of the addicted people do not admit that they have a problem which needs to be tackled and fought against. They neither accept nor want to get rid of this habit and as a result they keep drinking which results in negative health and social effects. Alcoholics need good counselling sessions so that they can properly understand their issue and work towards overcoming it (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is also an important treatment modality available for alcoholism. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) deals with the thinking pattern of the patients and makes an attempt to break the psychological or emotional ties that the patient has created for his habits. Counsellors make these people understand their inner feelings that have turned them into drunkards and make them learn how to control their urge for drinking. Within a short time, these victims find new ways to solve their problems instead of drinking alcohol (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Different medical approaches that target the brain chemicals are used for curing this condition. Scientists have developed medications based on research that target the brain chemicals that are responsible for alcoholism. The purpose of these medications is to overcome the imbalance of the neurotransmitters and to provide for the calming effect that is provided by alcohol. Furthermore, these medications are used to treat the withdrawal symptoms that result owing to the consumption of alcohol. Apart from medications and counselling sessions, the family of an alcoholic also has a pivotal role in assisting the individual in overcoming this issue. Family support and care as well as important family discussions with the alcoholic can assist in making the individual realize the negative effects that affect the family as a whole owing to excessive drinking. Family members should talk to the alcoholics and be sympathetic towards their problems and help them in overcoming their issues. They should provide support to the individual constantly during the period of withdrawal to keep the alcoholic determined (Gifford 2010, Langwith 2010). Conclusion Alcohol consumption is an important issue owing to the health and social issues linked with this problem. Despite of the fact that alcohol consumption has declined in the recent years, but there are still a large number of the residents of the United States who are involved in binge drinking. There are several genetic, social, environmental and emotional factors that are responsible for the development of this disorder amongst teenagers, adults and the elderly. Exploring all of the factors in detail, it can be concluded that although alcoholism is greatly linked with the genetic makeup of an individual, it is not the only factor responsible for alcoholism. Along with genetic factors, other environmental and social factors also play a significant role in its development. There are several ways of treating alcoholism. These include counseling, cognitive therapies, medications and family support. Research and studies show that counseling, cognitive therapies and other ways of treating alcoholism help alcoholics in understanding their problems and assist them in finding alternate solutions to their problems. References Agrawal, A., and Lynskey, M.T. (2008). Are there genetic influences on addiction: Evidence from family, adoption and twin studies. Addiction 103, 7, 1069–1081. Ducci, F., & Goldman, D. (2008). Genetic approaches to addiction: genes and alcohol. Addiction, 103, 9, 1414-1428. Feinstein, D. (2012). Acupoint stimulation in treating psychological disorders: Evidence of efficacy. Review of General Psychology, 16, 4, 364-380 Gelernter, J., and Kranzler, H.R. (2009). Genetics of alcohol dependence. Human Genetics 126, 1, 91–99. Gifford, M. (2010). Alcoholism. Santa Barbara, Calif: Greenwood Press/ABC-CLIO. Langwith, J. (2010). Alcoholism. Detroit: Gale/Cengage Learning. Mayfield, R. D., Harris, R. A., & Schuckit, M. A. (January 01, 2008). Genetic factors influencing alcohol dependence. British Journal of Pharmacology, 154, 2, 275-87. Rinfrette, E. S. (February 04, 2009). Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Alcohol Disorders in the Elderly: Social Work Collaboration in Primary Care. Journal of Evidence-Based Social Work, 6, 1, 79-91. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2010). Results from the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Volume I. Summary of National Findings. (Office of Applied Studies, NSDUH Series H-38A, HHS Publication No. SMA 10 4586Findings). Rockville, MD. United States. Retrieved from http://www.samhsa.gov/data/2k9/2k9Resultsweb/web/2k9results.htm U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2012). College Drinking. National Institutes of Health. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Retrieved from http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/special-populations-co-occurring-disorders/college-drinking Read More