Introduction
Over the recent past, the problem associated with alcohol abuse and addiction has increased. The increasing cases of alcoholism, also known as addiction, have led to a rising concern and a research on its challenges and remedies. It is important to note that alcoholism is a disease that requires treatment and close attention. Families and friends of the victim suffering from alcoholism are equally affected by the problem.
The relevance of addressing the rising cases of alcoholism stems from the initial step, which espouses acknowledgement that indeed the issue of alcohol abuse is a concern that needs timely solution. Essentially, countries need to accept that their populations are increasingly experiencing the problem of addiction. Absconding duties, continuous drinking even if it affects friends, and family, uncommon craving for alcohol, and dependence on alcohol are some of the signs that indicate addiction. Demonstration of the signs should send a signal to the family and friends that the person needs treatment and attention in relation to management of alcoholism.
Dangers, Treatment Options, and Resources for Families
The dangers associated with alcoholism are diverse and numerous. While some dangers are short-lived and less severe, others are long-term and have life threatening problems. Loss of employment, poor performance in learning institutions, and engaging in juvenile activities are among the short-term problems linked to alcohol addiction. Korhonen (2004) states that when people become addicted, they engage in activities that focus on increasing the amount of time spent drinking, and as such, they fail to report to their workplaces.
Furthermore, the individuals fail to perform well in learning institutions and eventually engage in criminal activities so that they can get resources used to purchase the drink. Consequently, severe or long-term dangers include contraction of diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver and an eventual death of the individual. Therefore, it is important to undertake a timely treatment whenever a person demonstrates signs of addiction.
It is important to explain that treatment from alcoholism comprise behavioural, use of mutual support groups, and medication. When administering behavioural treatment, victims go through a counselling process, which focus on educating them on the effects of addiction and discouraging them from alcohol abuse.
Consequently, mutual groups commonly known as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) help the victim to recover from addiction. Rehabilitation and medication are the options used in the advent that behavioural and mutual groups fail to provide rewarding outcomes in the aftermath of their utilization. The options for treatment usually receive funding from the state, a factor that serves to minimise the resources spent by families as they grapple with the problem. Additionally, the state can also provide support and resources to families that have addicted individuals especially in scenarios where the victim is the breadwinner in the family.
Demographics of the Target Audience and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
Fundamentally, the target audience in the context of alcoholism comprises adults and teenagers. The focus on adults and teenagers emanates from the fact that they are the most affected by the problem of alcohol addiction. According to Carolyn (2013), the youth and the adult populations in the United States are among the largest part of the population affected by alcohol addiction. On the other hand, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy is a model that is very practical in management and treatment of alcoholism.
O’Donohue, Fisher, and Hayes (2003) highlight that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is very important for leaders, who can use it to educate and discourage individuals from alcohol abuse. Apparently, the model focuses on educating the victims and informing them on the negatives of drinking as well as the positives of staying away from alcohol. Additionally the model instils life skills that help the individuals identify cravings early and work on them before they take over their behaviours. It is imperative to note that the life skills instilled by the model remain long after victims quit drinking, and thus, enable them address the daily challenges of life effectively.
Ethnic and Cultural Factors that Play a Role in Alcohol Addiction and the Impact of Legal and Ethical Considerations when Addressing Alcoholism
Apparently, a number of the ethnic and cultural factors play a role in alcohol addiction. Western cultures that are liberal and less conservative are among the cultures that experience increasing cases of alcohol abuse. The experience associated with western cultures emanates from the liberal nature of these cultures. Notably, several individuals in European and American continents suffer from the issues of addiction, because the cultures practiced in these continents are liberal.
According to Carolyn (2013), western countries are among the regions that have high cases of addiction as opposed to other parts of the globe. The explanation provided by Carolyn compounds the role that liberal cultures play in alcohol addiction.
Consequently, legal and ethical considerations are some of the major procedures that countries need to adopt as they work hard to manage alcoholism. Policies that govern alcohol consumption need to emphasize on its wise use. In addition, states should devise policies that have stringent measures on individuals, who drink and drive. On the other hand, ethical considerations need to focus on addressing alcoholics and managing their problem. Korhonen (2004) asserts that during arrest, it is ethical for police officers to take an addict to centres that help them recover from the disease. The need to hand over an alcoholic to centres that treat them is ethical as it helps manage alcoholism and facilitates recovery.
References
Carolyn, H. (2013). Addiction, Assessment, and Treatment with Adolescents, Adults, and Families. London: Routledge.
Korhonen, M. (2004). Alcohol Problems and Approaches: Theories, Evidence, and Northern Practice. Ontario: National Aboriginal Health Organization.
O’Donohue, W., Fisher, J., & Hayes, S. (2003). Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: Applying Empirically Supported Techniques in Your Practice. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons.