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Essay Examples on Alcohol Abuse

These essays serve as an invaluable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of alcohol abuse and its impacts on individuals and society. Whether you're seeking inspiration, information, or guidance on structuring your own essay, our collection is designed to support your academic endeavors and inspire your writing journey.

Understanding ... Read More These essays serve as an invaluable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of alcohol abuse and its impacts on individuals and society. Whether you're seeking inspiration, information, or guidance on structuring your own essay, our collection is designed to support your academic endeavors and inspire your writing journey. Understanding Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse is a pervasive issue that affects millions of lives around the globe. It's characterized by the excessive or inappropriate consumption of alcohol, leading to adverse health, social, and legal consequences. Essays on alcohol abuse explore the causes, effects, and solutions to this complex problem, offering diverse perspectives that can enlighten and challenge readers. Through these essays, students can explore topics such as the psychological factors driving alcohol dependency, the social implications of alcohol abuse, and effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Our Essay Collection

Our collection of alcohol abuse essays encompasses a wide range of topics, ensuring that students can find essays that resonate with their specific interests and academic requirements. From analytical pieces that dissect the societal impact of alcohol abuse to personal narratives that offer a glimpse into the lives of those affected by it, our essays provide a comprehensive look at this multifaceted issue. Each essay serves as a starting point for your own research and writing, offering insights and perspectives that can enrich your work.

How to Use Our Essays:

• Inspiration: Let the diverse range of essays spark your own creative ideas for topics and approaches to your alcohol abuse essay.
• Research: Use the essays as a foundation for your research, helping you to gather relevant information, statistics, and case studies.
• Structure and Format: Analyze the structure of our essays to understand how to effectively organize and present your arguments and findings.
• Citing Sources: Learn how to properly cite sources and reference material, an essential skill for academic writing.

Our alcohol abuse essay samples are more than just resources; they are a beacon of inspiration for students embarking on the challenging task of writing about such a significant and sensitive topic. By exploring our collection, you can gain the knowledge, insight, and confidence needed to craft an essay that not only meets academic standards but also makes a meaningful contribution to the discourse on alcohol abuse.

Remember, the journey of writing an impactful alcohol abuse essay starts with understanding, empathy, and the willingness to explore the issue from multiple angles. We invite you to dive into our collection and let it guide you towards creating a compelling and thoughtful piece that reflects your unique perspective and voice.

Start exploring our alcohol abuse essay samples today and take the first step towards crafting an essay that resonates with readers and contributes to a deeper understanding of alcohol abuse and its implications.

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103 Alcohol Abuse Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Alcohol Abuse Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Alcohol abuse is a prevalent issue that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Writing an essay on this topic can help raise awareness about the consequences of alcohol abuse and encourage discussions on prevention and treatment strategies. Here are 103 alcohol abuse essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your writing:

• The impact of alcohol abuse on physical health.
• Exploring the psychological effects of alcohol abuse.
• The correlation between alcohol abuse and domestic violence.
• The role of genetics in alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse among college students: causes and prevention.
• The effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on fetal development.
• Alcohol abuse among teenagers: risk factors and prevention strategies.
• The relationship between alcohol abuse and mental health disorders.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on academic performance.
• The societal and economic costs of alcohol abuse.
• Exploring the link between alcohol abuse and sexual assault.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to liver disease.
• The role of advertising in promoting alcohol consumption.
• Alcohol abuse and its consequences on the workplace.
• The influence of peer pressure on alcohol abuse among adolescents.
• Is alcoholism a disease or a choice?
• The effects of alcohol abuse on memory and cognitive functioning.
• Alcohol abuse in the LGBTQ+ community: prevalence and challenges.
• The role of parenting in preventing alcohol abuse among adolescents.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on relationships and family dynamics.
• The representation of alcohol abuse in literature and media.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on the immune system.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
• The role of law enforcement in preventing alcohol-related crimes.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to prescription drug misuse.
• Exploring cultural differences in alcohol abuse patterns.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on college campus safety.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing cancer.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on sleep quality.
• The role of social media in promoting alcohol consumption.
• Alcohol abuse among older adults: causes and interventions.
• The effectiveness of treatment programs for alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to homelessness.
• The role of alcohol abuse in motor vehicle accidents.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the developing brain.
• The relationship between alcohol abuse and suicide rates.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
• The role of alcohol abuse in the development of eating disorders.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on memory formation and retrieval.
• The use of medication-assisted treatment for alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to child neglect and abuse.
• The impact of alcohol advertising on underage drinking.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing liver cirrhosis.
• The role of education in preventing alcohol abuse.
• Alcohol abuse among military personnel: causes and interventions.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on driving performance.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and gambling addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on college retention rates.
• The role of alcohol abuse in the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on the developing fetus.
• The influence of family history on the development of alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to mental health stigma.
• The effectiveness of brief interventions for alcohol abuse.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing pancreatitis.
• The role of alcohol abuse in the progression of HIV/AIDS.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the immune response to vaccines.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and intimate partner violence.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on decision-making processes.
• The effectiveness of school-based prevention programs for alcohol abuse.
• Alcohol abuse among healthcare professionals: challenges and solutions.
• The role of alcohol abuse in the development of fetal alcohol syndrome.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to substance use disorders.
• The impact of globalization on alcohol consumption patterns.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on the teenage brain.
• The role of community support in alcohol addiction recovery.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to child development delays.
• The influence of alcohol abuse on sexual risk-taking behaviors.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the immune response to infections.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and homelessness.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on emotional regulation.
• The role of spirituality in alcohol addiction recovery.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to adolescent delinquency.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on academic achievement.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing neurological disorders.
• The effectiveness of harm reduction strategies for alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on executive functioning.
• The role of cultural norms in alcohol abuse patterns.
• Alcohol abuse among first responders: causes and interventions.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to self-harm behaviors.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on the gut microbiota.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on attention and concentration.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and food insecurity.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the endocrine system.
• The role of trauma in the development of alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to adolescent mental health disorders.
• The effectiveness of peer support groups for alcohol addiction recovery.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing respiratory diseases.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on creativity and artistic expression.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on social cognition.
• The role of public health campaigns in preventing alcohol abuse.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to child maltreatment.
• The influence of alcohol abuse on academic motivation.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the cardiovascular system.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and eating disorder recovery.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on sensory perception.
• The role of cultural identity in alcohol addiction recovery.
• Alcohol abuse and its connection to adolescent substance use.
• The impact of alcohol abuse on the immune response to vaccines.
• Alcohol abuse and the risk of developing kidney disease.
• The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for alcohol addiction.
• Alcohol abuse and its effects on spatial cognition.
• The connection between alcohol abuse and social isolation.
• Alcohol abuse and its impact on the neurobiology of addiction.

These essay topic ideas provide a broad range of perspectives on alcohol abuse, enabling you to choose a topic that aligns with your interests and academic goals. Remember to conduct thorough research and support your arguments with credible sources for a compelling and thought-provoking essay.

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• v.14(10); 2022 Oct

Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Various Systems of the Human Body: A Systematic Review

Jerin varghese.

1 Medical School, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND

Sarika Dakhode

2 Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND

Prolonged alcohol intake for many years has been known to cause serious ailments in human beings since time memorial. Even after knowing that this dangerous addiction paves the way to one’s own grave, there isn’t much difference in the way the community sees this deadly habit. Time and again history has proven that this fatal addiction could make the life of those who consume it terrible. Also, the lives of the dear ones of alcoholic people are affected as alcohol not only affects those who consume them but also kin and friends. Various research studies conducted over many years clearly show the association of prolonged alcohol intake in the causation, aggravation, worsening, and deterioration of the health of its consumers. Moreover, chronic alcohol intake single-handedly is one of the major etiological factors in various serious diseases.

Introduction and background

Through the ages, alcoholism has been undisputedly maintaining its position in the list of risk factors for preventable diseases in the world. According to a WHO report, 5.3% of all deaths that occurred worldwide in the year 2016 were because of harmful alcohol use [ 1 ]. It is the main culprit behind the advancing nature of many chronic diseases. It drastically increases the severity of diseases and also makes the treatments less effective. Alcohol not only affects the person physiologically, but it has many adverse effects psychologically and socially too. Also, the habit of alcoholism leads to huge expenses [ 2 ]. Apart from systemic involvement, which causes various clinical manifestations, there are certain signs and symptoms that are most of the times non-specific and that as such don’t point out or say lead to a particular diagnosis, such as nausea, agitation, vomiting, anxiety, diaphoresis, tremors, headache, visual hallucinations, tachycardia, seizures, delirium, temperature elevation, etc. It is not always necessary that these mentioned signs and symptoms are compulsorily linked with disease conditions.

Alcohol clearly plays a very important role in making many other diseases progress to their advanced stages. It has been also noted that alcohol intake and its related disorders are often associated with many other manifestations; for example, patients with alcoholic neuropathy often have associated nutritional deficiencies. Recent studies have clearly proved that alcoholism is associated with many types of cancers too and this understanding of alcoholism has spurred research minds all over the globe to find out the exact pathophysiology behind the same. Alcohol is a very easily available source of addiction, which is one of the main reasons why it remains a serious threat to the community. There is a huge variety that is available as far as alcoholic drinks are concerned. Alcohol is also one of the cheaply accessible means of addiction; this explains why alcoholism is so prevalent. A person may initially start consuming alcohol in very low amounts most probably with just a desire to try it, but once he or she gets addicted, then getting rid of the habit becomes extremely difficult. Even if a person is mentally resolute enough to quit alcoholism, his or her body, which has been modified because of the chronic use of alcohol, won’t be up to the challenge anytime soon; he or she has to overcome many hurdles put forward by the body, which could in an umbrella term be referred to as alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

There are many social stigmas associated with alcohol intake. Most people get into this addiction by getting inspired by the people whom they admire, like actors, celebrities, role models, etc. Also, exposure to the sight of family members, relatives and friends drinking alcohol has a huge impact on one’s mindset as he or she may take it to be something that is normal. In the long run, most of the time, even without their realization, people get pathetically trapped in this dangerous fatal habit of alcoholism, which eventually makes their lives pitiful in almost all aspects. Studies have shown that alcohol is also a key player in many other domains too like accidents, suicide, depression, hallucinations, violence, memory disturbances, etc.

The main purpose of this review article is to enable any person reading this article to get a comprehensive insight into the effects of alcohol on the various systems of the human body, and for the same, many recognized research articles published in numerous well-acknowledged journals across the globe are reviewed. The article is written using very basic and simple terminologies so that even a layperson who reads it would be able to understand it. For the easy acceptability and understanding of the reader, the discussion is written in such a way that almost every major system is reviewed one by one and the effect of alcohol on these systems put forward in very simple language. The strategies used for the establishment of this review article are summarised in Figure ​ Figure1; 1 ; these include considering research articles that have been published in journals with are indexed in reputed platforms, segregating articles according to the different systems, framing the review like a discussion section of an article where details are explained in simple and straight forward sentences, etc.

Impact of alcohol on the central nervous system (CNS)

Alcohol exerts various effects on our CNS in various ways, the common ones being depression of the CNS, destruction of the brain cells, contraction of the tissues of the brain, suppression of the excitatory nerve pathway activity, neuronal injury, etc [ 3 ]. Alcohol’s impact on the functioning of the brain ranges from mild and anxiolytic disinhibitory effects, motor incoordination, sedation, emesis, amnesia, hypnosis and ultimately unconsciousness [ 4 ]. The synaptic transmission is heavily disturbed and altered by ethanol, and the intrinsic excitability in various areas of the brain is also compromised. The effects of ethanol may be pre-synaptic, post-synaptic, and at times, non-synaptic too. Alcohol being a psychotropic depressant of the CNS exerts a deeply profound impact on the neurons, which alters the biological and behavioural well-being of the one who consumes it by the promotion of interference in various neuronal pathways [ 5 ]. The treatments of many disorders of the CNS are shown to be affected by the consumption of alcohol, and thus, it is generally advised to keep oneself away from alcohol if one is undergoing treatment for any CNS manifestations, like anxiety or mood disorders [ 6 ].

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is chronic in nature and is characterized by uncontrolled drinking and also a preoccupation with alcohol. The severity of AUD is a crucial factor in how it is going to affect the human body. AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe according to the symptoms a person experiences. The clinical manifestations of AUD include signs and symptoms such as inability to control the amount of alcohol intake, spending a lot of time drinking, feeling an uncontrollable craving for alcohol, loss of interest in social activities, failure to fulfil tasks within the time provided, etc. Most of the time, along with the person who consumes alcohol, several other factors are also to be taken care of in order to effectively manage alcohol-related health conditions. These factors can be social, environmental, genetic, psychological, etc, which make a considerable impact on how alcohol affects the behaviour and body of those consuming it. Binge drinking, i.e., drinking to such an extent on a single occasion that the blood alcohol concentration level becomes 0.08% or more, is a very relevant aspect of alcohol intake, which has to be dealt with, with utmost urgency. Certain research studies suggest that mild to moderate alcohol intake provides a certain sort of protection against a few CNS disorders like dementia, ischemia of neurons, etc, but this in no way should encourage the community in promoting alcohol intake as in reality, it is very difficult to remain within the limits of mild to moderate alcohol intake, and thus, eventually, people do end up as full-time severe alcohol abusers. Epilepsy, a seizure disorder caused by disturbed nerve cell activity in the brain, aggravates on excessive alcohol intake as alcohol increases the frequency of seizures in patients of epilepsy [ 7 ]. The issue becomes more severe in those epileptic patients who have refractory forms of epilepsy. As far as comorbidities are concerned, a valid history of abuse of substances or alcohol dependence is believed to be strongly associated with a high risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) [ 8 ]. Heavy alcohol drinking over a long period of time has been found to have an intensely negative undesirable effect on the autonomic nervous system too.

Impact of alcohol on the cardiovascular system (CVS)

Chronic alcohol intake is undoubtedly a very important risk factor as far as cardiovascular diseases are concerned and several clinical trials do point out this fact. The results of several research studies conducted in various settings clearly indicate that increased intake of alcohol has increased adverse effects on our heart and its vasculature. Alcohol exerts its action on the cardiovascular system both directly and indirectly. Blood pressure, a very vital player in the domain of cardiovascular diseases, is in turn itself affected by increased alcohol consumption. Blood pressure gets increased on regular consumption of alcohol in a manner which is dose-dependent, which in turn increases the risk of hypertension and eventually leads to various cardiovascular complications. How exactly alcohol causes hypertension is still unclear with many pathophysiological theories out there. Atrial fibrillation, one of the most common causes of arrhythmia, is associated with the high-volume chronic intake of alcohol and above 14 g alcohol/day, the relative risk dramatically increases by 10% for each extra standard drink (14 g ethanol) [ 9 ].

Cerebrovascular accidents are increased to a great extent at almost all levels of alcohol intake [ 10 ]. Alcohol intake leads to both acute (depresses the cardiac function and also alters the blood flow of the involved region) and chronic cardiovascular manifestations [ 11 ]. Alcohol abuse along with other associated factors is one of the leading causes of secondary cardiomyopathy [ 12 ]. Cardiac arrhythmias get precipitated by alcohol consumption, be it acute or chronic. Heavy alcohol drinking is shown to impact the cardiovascular system in many ways, one of the most important among them being rebound hypertension [ 13 ]. Apart from congenital disorders of the cardiovascular system, it indeed is a very well-evident fact, which could be understood from the history of most of the patients diagnosed with cardiovascular disorders, that they used to consume a lot of alcohol for many years.

Impact of alcohol on the digestive system

Chronic alcoholism is found to have a very strong relationship with both acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Chronic alcohol intake impairs the repair ability of the structures of the exocrine pancreas, thereby leading to pancreatic dysfunctioning [ 14 ]. Most of the patients diagnosed with pancreatitis have a strong history of chronic intake of alcohol. Liver diseases related to alcohol intake are known to humankind from the very beginning and probably are one of the oldest known forms of injury to the liver [ 15 ]. In liver diseases linked with alcohol, liver cirrhosis is a major concern. Statistics show that liver cirrhosis is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide and this in itself indicates the severity of the same [ 16 ]. The changing lifestyle and also many people turning to prolonged alcohol intake for many years are contributing to the increased number of liver cirrhosis patients in the modern world. In liver cirrhosis patients, there occurs an increased severity of fibrosis due to the loss of parenchyma and fibrous scar proliferation [ 17 ]. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is an umbrella term which incorporates a wide range of injuries of the liver, spanning from simple steatosis to cirrhosis, and this also includes alcohol-related fatty liver disease (AFLD) and also alcoholic hepatitis [ 18 ]. Advancements in the diagnostic modalities have helped to diagnose ALD at an early phase and there is no doubt that newer and better investigations that have helped to detect more cases have led to a surge in the number of ALD patients on whole. Alcohol intake has a prominently bigger impact on the mortality of liver cirrhosis when compared with the morbidity [ 19 ]. A systemic review and meta-analysis suggests that women might be at a higher risk as far as developing liver cirrhosis is concerned even with little consumption of alcohol, as compared to men [ 20 ].

Impact of alcohol on the causation of cancer

Alcohol has much to do with cancers too and continuous research studies are conducted in order to find out the relationship between the two in detail. In a meta-analysis, it was found that women consuming alcohol had a later menopause onset, which is found to be associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk and also all-cause mortality, but unfortunately, the happiness of this advantage gets compromised by the ironic fact that it has an increased risk of cancer (including ovarian and breast cancers) [ 21 , 22 ]. Large cohort studies, many meta-analyses, experimental research studies, etc are suggestive of the fact that the chronic intake of alcohol clearly increases colon and gastric cancer risk [ 23 ]. A causal association is also found between alcohol intake and cancers of the rectum, colon, liver, oesophagus, larynx, pharynx and oral cavity [ 24 ]. There are various theories put forward so as to understand the role of the consumption of alcohol in the development of cancer; there is suspicion that the rise in the number of alcohol users worldwide may be one of the reasons why the number of cancer patients is increasing at a global level. Chronic intake of alcohol may promote the genesis of cancer in many ways, some of the most notable ones being acetaldehyde (weak mutagen and carcinogen) production, cytochrome P450 2E1 induction associated oxidative stress, S-adenosylmethionine depletion/ which leads to global DNA hypomethylation induction, iron induction associated oxidative stress, retinoic acid metabolism impairment, etc [ 25 ].

Impact of alcohol on other systems

Apart from the systemic manifestations which do affect a particular system of the body, there are various disorders in which alcohol indirectly provides its crucial contribution. It is a common finding that one could perceive that alcohol is most of the time in the list of risk factors for various diseases. Alcohol has been found to adversely affect our immune system and the matter of concern as far as this issue is concerned is that immune responses are influenced by even moderate amounts of alcohol intake [ 26 ]. Alcohol affects innate immunity and also interferes with almost all the various aspects of the adaptive immune response. Alcohol is a key player in impairing anti-inflammatory cytokines and also promotes proinflammatory immune responses. The gastrointestinal biome is severely manipulated by the use of alcohol over a long period of time, which in turn is found to have a link with the establishment of various complications [ 27 ]. Alcohol and its metabolites are found to promote inflammation in the intestines and they do so through varied pathways [ 28 ]. Alcohol being a teratogen is documented to cause abnormalities of the brain, limbs, etc [ 29 ]. Multiple studies have been conducted across the globe to understand the effect of alcohol on humans; implications from certain such studies are put forth in Table ​ Table1 1 . 

Conclusions

Alcohol seldom leaves any system untouched as far as leaving its impression is concerned, spanning from single tissue involvement to complex organ system manifestations. Almost all the major organs that make up a human’s physiological being are dramatically affected by the overconsumption of alcohol. There is an enormous overall economic cost that is paid for alcohol abuse all over the world.

The content published in Cureus is the result of clinical experience and/or research by independent individuals or organizations. Cureus is not responsible for the scientific accuracy or reliability of data or conclusions published herein. All content published within Cureus is intended only for educational, research and reference purposes. Additionally, articles published within Cureus should not be deemed a suitable substitute for the advice of a qualified health care professional. Do not disregard or avoid professional medical advice due to content published within Cureus.

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Alcohol Abuse and Native Americans

This essay about the intricate dynamics of alcohol misuse within Indigenous communities explores historical, cultural, and socioeconomic factors shaping its impact. It highlights the disproportionate burden borne by Indigenous populations, while also emphasizing their resilience in addressing substance misuse. Through a focus on cultural revitalization and community empowerment, the essay underscores the importance of honoring Indigenous sovereignty and co-creating solutions to foster healing and empowerment.

How it works

Exploring the intricate tapestry of alcohol misuse within Indigenous communities unveils a narrative woven with historical intricacies, cultural fortitude, and contemporary complexities. This nuanced examination sheds light on the myriad factors shaping alcohol’s impact on indigenous populations.

From the earliest encounters with European settlers, alcohol has played a multifaceted role in the lives of Indigenous peoples, introduced initially as a trade commodity and later entwined with colonial policies aimed at control. These historical currents cast a long shadow, shaping the modern landscape of alcohol misuse within indigenous communities.

Yet, to truly grasp the breadth of alcohol misuse among Indigenous peoples, it’s essential to delve into the intricate interplay of socio-economic, cultural, and psychological influences. Poverty, limited access to healthcare, and the erosion of traditional cultural practices all contribute to the heightened vulnerability of Indigenous populations to substance misuse.

The statistics paint a sobering picture, revealing the disproportionate burden of alcohol-related issues borne by Indigenous communities. Elevated rates of alcohol-related mortality, violence, and chronic health conditions underscore the severity of the challenge.

However, within this narrative of adversity lies a story of resilience and resistance. Indigenous communities have long been engaged in efforts to address alcohol misuse on their own terms, drawing upon cultural strengths and communal bonds to foster healing and recovery. Initiatives rooted in cultural revitalization and community empowerment offer a glimmer of hope amidst the complexities.

The revitalization of traditional cultural practices emerges as a potent strategy in combatting alcohol misuse. For many Indigenous peoples, reclaiming and celebrating their cultural heritage serves as a protective shield against substance misuse, nurturing a sense of identity and belonging. Supporting initiatives that promote cultural resilience and honor indigenous wisdom is crucial in this endeavor.

Furthermore, addressing the underlying social determinants of health is paramount in tackling alcohol misuse among Indigenous populations. This involves efforts to improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, alongside initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic inequalities and historical injustices.

Central to any effective approach is the acknowledgment of Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination. Solutions must be co-crafted in collaboration with Native communities, centering their voices, perspectives, and expertise.

As we navigate the complex landscape of alcohol misuse among Indigenous peoples, we must confront the enduring legacy of colonialism and commit to fostering a more equitable and just society. By amplifying Indigenous voices and honoring cultural resilience, we can pave a path towards healing and empowerment for all.

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Alcohol Abuse and Native Americans. (2024, Apr 07). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/alcohol-abuse-and-native-americans/

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It is a well-known fact that alcohol abuse is a serious disease associated with intense drinking of alcoholic beverages and neglecting its negative consequences. Very often alcohol abuse is described as something like an alcoholic dependence, but there is a definite difference between these two forms of addiction. The difference is that alcohol abuse doesn’t have such symptoms as withdrawal (getting physical symptoms after not drinking for a short period of time) and tolerance (having to drink increasing amounts to achieve previous effect). Although it is much easier to treat alcohol abuse than alcohol dependence, it is still a huge problem. In this paper I want to argue that the seriousness of alcohol abuse and its consequences mustn’t be overlooked in any case. Many people may claim that alcohol can have a lot of positive effects on one’s health and mental well-being, but what I want to underline is that there is a very thin crossing border between drinking to one’s good and over consuming alcohol. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Analysis states that each year more than 100,000 deaths in the United States of America are caused by the excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol is also a cause of thousands of innocent deaths each years, it is one of the major reasons for domestic violence and violent crimes.

There are a lot of different causes of alcohol abuse, but the most common among them are: 1) peers pressure – it is considered to be somewhat fashionable and common to drink alcohol, especially among teenagers and college students; 2) biological predisposition – those people who had alcoholics in their families are at the higher risk for abusing alcohol than those who don’t have a family history of such an addiction; 3) stressful situations or great life challenges – many people start drinking alcohol in excess in order to cope with all the problems and to get through all the challenges that they’re facing in their lives.  As Saisan reports very often people start drinking to mask their depression, grief, anxiety or loneliness, or drinking may become the only way for them to feel comfortable and relaxed, and to feel themselves connected to other people.  Another negative aspect of drinking alcohol is that many societies and cultures dictate it in one way or another. For example, in many countries it is natural to drink beer or wine during meals, different kinds of celebrations can’t be seen without alcohol beverages and cocktails, and in many businesses entertaining clients with alcohol after a working day is considered to be a norm.

The most dangerous thing is that people continue to consume alcohol in excess despite knowing all the social, personal and legal problems that alcohol abuse is causing them. Many people argue that a flute of champagne or glass of a red wine can make one’s heart stronger and may boost one’s memory, so there is nothing wrong in drinking alcohol time after time. But the problem is that such ‘time after time’ may turn into every night or everyday alcohol consumption. Another for-alcohol aspect is that some experts and doctors state that alcohol consumption may help to burn calories. Whatever food items a person eats alcohol will break it down. Moderate drinking also raises HDL (good) cholesterol and lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol, decreases blood pressure, improves body’s sensitivity to insulin, which cuts the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, what people should remember is such a case is that drinking must be moderate in order to have positive effects on one’s health. Moderate drinking is defined as one or two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women and those over 65. A drink is a 12-ounce bottle or can of beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor.

But what people do forget is that eventually untreated alcohol abuse leads to alcohol dependence which is much more difficult to cure. According to the Institute of Alcohol Studies, a person is considered to be dependent on alcohol when one have experienced three or more of the following symptoms during a year.

• A strong urge to drink, difficulty controlling how much they drink, or difficulty stopping.
• Physical withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating, shaking, agitation and nausea when they try to reduce drinking.
• A growing tolerance to alcohol – needing larger quantities to get the same effect.
• Gradual neglect of other activities.
• Persistent drinking even though it is obviously causing harm.

During different periods of their lifecycles all people can be in the risk zone of starting abusing alcohol, but still there are several groups of people who are more likely than others to have problems with alcohol. 1) Teenagers and young adults – approximately one-half of all high school seniors in the USA admit to having used alcohol. 2) Adults older than 65 – many people of this age use alcohol as a way of self-medication in order to cope with sleep problems and depression. 3) Low-income population – alcohol abuse is a problem for many minorities, homeless and disabled adults.  According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism one in three people will become hooked on alcohol at some point in their lives, and only one-quarter of people with a problem will get treated. So what’s the point to get yourself in the risk of abusing alcohol by saying to oneself that it will happen to somebody else, but not me?

Another point that people, especially women, like to use in order to justify their sometimes excessive consumption of alcohol is that it lowers cancer risks. For example, it is stated by doctors that women who don’t drink at all have higher risks for certain diseases, for example breast cancer. But Rimm (2007) says that if one wants to lower risks of getting cancer one should better ditch cigarettes, eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid too much sun exposure, keep weight under control, get regular exercises, than simply add an extra bottle of wine to one’s everyday menu.

Alcohol abuse has negative consequences for single individuals as well as for the society in general. The main negative aspect of alcohol abuse is first of all health problems that it causes. There is a number of both long-term and short-term effects of alcohol on the organism of a person. Short-term problems are easier to treat, but eventually they may turn into much more serious diseases. As alcohol is a depressant of the central nervous system its excessive consumption may lead to a loss of inhibition. It also results in the loss of balance, blurred vision, vomiting, slurred speech and nausea. National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism also provides information that drinking too much alcohol at one time may result in unconsciousness, coma and even death. Long-term effects include:

• high blood pressure that can lead to stroke;
• hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver;
• heart failure;
• damage to the brain;
• neurological problems such as epilepsy;
• other neurological problems, such as confusion, numbness and problems with memory;
• birth defects;
• gastritis (inflammation to the stomach lining) and pancreatitis (inflammation to the pancreas);
• different types of cancer, including mouth, lung and throat.

Alcohol abuse can also cause muscle disease, infertility, sexual and skin problems; erectile dysfunction. Excessive drinking also leads to a number of psychological problems. Although in short-term alcohol may help people to relax, in a long run it can lead to increase of anxiety and eventually to depression. It also causes sleeping problems, mood-swings and may lead to suicides.

But even more disastrous are the ways in which alcohol abuse affects families and family lives. It is stated by psychologists and sociologists that very often alcohol abuse results in the child abuse and neglect. “The abuser may neglect a child’s basic needs due to drinking.  Lack of impulse control can lead to increased physical and emotional abuse” (Saisan). Alcohol abuse of one of the family members causes huge emotional and psychological stress to other members of the family. Especially sensitive in this case are children, who may not understand what is happening with their parents, or who may come to the conclusion that drinking too much is a norm of living. Drinking in excess also leads to the increased domestic violence, greater number of injuries and deaths at homes.  Another major issue is alcohol and pregnancy. Women who drink heavily during pregnancy are at risk of having babies with a condition called fetal alcohol syndrome. This can result in growth deficiencies, nervous system problems, lowered intelligence, and facial abnormalities in the child (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism).

Another important aspect of alcohol abuse is that it can eventually lead to the loss of one’s job. Person who suffers from alcohol addiction may not only have problems with meeting job requirements and deadlines, but one may cause serious hazards for others, especially if one’s job is connected with servicing people. For example, Leigh found in his research that heavy beer use is strongly correlated with the fatality rates within occupations and industries (20). But drinking among workers not only threatens public safety, it also results in costly medical, social and other problems both for the employees and for the employers. Problems with jobs cause even greater stress for the family. Other family members may find themselves in the situation when they have to work more in order to make financial ends meet.

The most frightening thing is that alcohol abuse doesn’t only affect single individuals and families, but it is a major threat for the American nation and society as a whole. Problems with alcohol in the USA start from drinking alcohol as a way of entertainment among teenagers and college students, it leads to the increase of deaths from the impaired drivers, and the ultimate result is the general degradation of the American nation. Studies showed that many male college students drink in order to feel themselves “macho” and female college students drink in order to feel equal to men. The consequences of drinking among college students include missing classes, not studying for the test, failing courses, altercations with other people. But the most serious issue in this case is that many college students drive cars while being under the influence of alcohol.  It was found that alcohol kills 6 ½ times more youth than all other illicit drugs combined. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that about 45% of all the traffic crashes are due to the excess alcohol consumption. And all this leads to the general degradation of our population. For many people (especially for youth) to go to the party or club and get drunk is more interesting and exiting than to go to some kind of a gallery, performance, or simply to watch a movie or read a book. Eventually alcohol abuse leads to the increased dropout rates, to the inability of students to find a job after college or school graduation, or to poor job performance if they will manage to obtain a job. Another aspect is that students who abuse alcohol are in the great risk of being involved in all sorts of crimes and high risk sexual behaviors. In such a way the amount of single mothers and abandoned children increases as well.

Many people in the USA and all over the world fight for the general prohibition of alcohol consumption but I don’t think that it is a good solution to the problem of alcohol abuse. First of all, because many people do drink reasonably and good alcohol adds certain level of pleasure to their lives, and therefore it is not right to punish the majority for the actions of minority. And secondly, total prohibition of alcohol consumption will lead to the increased desire to drink as it was observed in the USA in the 1920s – 1930s. Plus alcohol prohibition may encourage people to experiment with other drugs that may be much more dangerous than alcohol. The solution that I can propose in such a situation is to increase the awareness of the population not only about the negative consequences of alcoholism, but of alcohol abuse as well. People should come to the understanding of the true meaning of moderate drinking. Another way to decrease alcohol consumption rates is to punish people more severely for all the illegal actions done under the influence of alcohol.

So once again the point that I wanted to make in this argumentative essay is that alcohol abuse is indeed a serious problem and it mustn’t be underestimated in any case, because it can lead to even a greater problem – alcohol dependence. Many people find a lot of for-drinking arguments, covering excessive alcohol consumption by such reasons as improving health, relaxing and lowering risks of getting certain types of diseases, but in any case people should remember that eventually alcohol abuse may turn into an alcoholism, which is a chronic and progressive disease, and it may become fatal in not treated in time. The main issue of excessive drinking is that in doesn’t only cause problems to individuals, but it as well affects their families, friends, colleagues, employers, and it threatens the well-being of those people who simply surround them. Eventually alcohol abuse affects the American nation as a whole, making it weaker, less productive and culturally degraded.

Leigh, Paul J. “Alcohol Abuse and Job Hazards.” Journal of Safety Research 27.1 (1996): 17-32.

Saisan, Joanna, & Cutter, Deborah, & Segal, Jeanne. “Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.” Helpguide. Jan. 2009. 5 Apr. 2009.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). “Alcohol Alert: Underage Drinking – A Major Public Health Challenge”, Alcohol Alert #59. Apr. 2003.

Heath, Dwight B., and Hanson, David J. “The misguided prohibition that governs U.S. colleges.” The Chronicle of Higher Education 47.48 (2001): B14.

Formichelli, L. “The Health Pros and Cons of Drinking”. CNN Health. 4 Dec. 2007. 18 Apr. 2009. http://edition.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/12/04/healthmag.alcohol/index.html

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Drug and Alcohol Abuse Analytical Essay

Introduction, works cited.

For along time now, drug and alcohol abuse in the society has been a problem that affects the youth and the society at large. The youth in the society get engaged in abusing substances that they feel all help them forget their problems. This paper highlights the problems of drug abuse and alcohol drinking among the youth in the society.

Alcohol is a substance that contains some elements that are bring about physical and psychological changes to an individual. Being a depressant, alcohol affects the nervous system altering the emotions and perceptions of individuals. Many teenager abuse alcohol and other drug substances due to curiosity, the need to feel good and to fit in their different groups. Drinking alcohol should not be encouraged because it usually affects the health of the youth.

It puts their health at a risk. Drinking youth are more likely to engage in irresponsible sexual activities that may result in unexpected pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. Additionally, teenagers who drink are more likely to get fat while complicating further their health conditions. Moreover, the youth drinking are at a risk of engaging in criminal activities hence being arrested (Cartwright 133).

According to the Australian Psychological Society, a drug can be a substance that brings about physical or psychological changes to an individual (2). Youngsters in the in the community take stuffs to increase enjoyment or decrease the sensational or physical pain. Some of the abused drugs by the youth in the society include marijuana, alcohol, heroine and cocaine.

The dangers of drug abuse are the chronic intoxication of the youth that is detrimental to their societies. Much intake of drugs leads to addiction that is indicated by the desire to take the drugs that cannot be resisted.

The effect of alcohol and other hard drugs are direct on the central nervous system. Alcohol and drug abuse is linked to societal practices like, partying, societal events, entertainment, and spirituality. The Australian Psychological Society argues that the choice of a substance is influenced by the particular needs of the substance user (3).

However, the effects of drug abuse differ from one individual to another. The abuse of drugs becomes a social problem whenever the users fail to meet some social responsibilities at home, work, or school. This is usually the effect when the substances are used more than they are normally taken. Additionally, when the use of substances is addictive, it leads to social problems (Cartwright 135).

Drug and alcohol abuse among the youth in the society should be discouraged and voided at all costs. The youth are affected and the society is affected. The productive young men and women cannot perform their social duties. One way in which the abuse of drugs and alcohol can be avoided in the society is through engaging the youth in various productive activities. This will reduce their idle time while keeping them busy (Cartwright 134).

They will not have enough time for drinking. Additionally, they will have fewer problems to worry about. They should also be educated and warned about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse both to their health and to the society. Since alcohol and substance abuse is related to increased crime in the society, its reduction will lead to reduced crime rates and economic growth.

The Australian Psychological Society. Alcohol, and Other Drugs . Australian Psychological society. Web.

Cartwright, William. Costs of Drug Abuse to the Society. The Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics , 1999. 2, 133-134.

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Complications From Alcohol Use Are Rising Among Women

New research shows that alcohol-related liver disease and other health problems increased even more than expected among women ages 40 to 64 during the pandemic.

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By Dani Blum

A new study adds to a mounting body of evidence showing that rising alcohol consumption among women is leading to higher rates of death and disease. The report, published Friday in the journal JAMA Health Forum , examined insurance claims data from 2017 to 2021 on more than 14 million Americans ages 15 and older. Researchers found that during the first year and a half of the coronavirus pandemic, women ages 40 to 64 were significantly more likely than expected to experience serious complications like alcohol-related cardiovascular and liver disease, as well as severe withdrawal.

The Background

Alcohol consumption in the United States has generally increased over the last 20 years , said Dr. Timothy Naimi, the director of the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria. Dr. Naimi was a co-author on a recent paper that showed deaths from excessive alcohol use in the United States rose by nearly 30 percent between 2016 and 2021.

While men still die more often from drinking-related causes than women, deaths among women are climbing at a faster rate. “The gap is narrowing,” said Dr. Bryant Shuey, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh and the lead author of the new study.

The Research

The study looked at serious health issues related to drinking, including alcohol-related liver and heart disease, inflammation of the stomach lining that led to bleeding, pancreatitis, alcohol-related mood disorders and withdrawal. Researchers compared insurance claims data for these complications with the rates they expected to see based on past prevalence of these conditions.

In nearly every month from April 2020 to September 2021, women ages 40 to 64 experienced complications from alcohol-related liver disease — a range of conditions that can develop when fat begins to accumulate in the liver — at higher rates than researchers predicted. If damage from drinking continues, scar tissue builds up in the liver and leads to a later stage of the disease, called cirrhosis. Some people with alcohol-related liver disease also develop severe liver inflammation, known as alcohol-associated hepatitis.

Rates of alcohol-related complications during the pandemic were also higher than predicted among men ages 40 to 64, but those increases were not statistically significant. But “men are not out of the woods” and still face health risks, Dr. Shuey said.

The Limitations

The study examined data only up until September 2021. Katherine Keyes, a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University who was not involved in the latest study, said she expected that alcohol use might keep rising among women — a pattern that could contribute to even more health issues.

And since the study relied on insurance claims, Dr. Shuey said it told an incomplete story. If someone is treated in the emergency room for an inflamed pancreas but doesn’t disclose a drinking history, for example, that instance may not be registered as an alcohol-related complication.

“The truth is, we’re probably underestimating this,” he said.

The Takeaways

These findings underscore how patterns of heavy drinking can translate into serious health consequences. Over the last 10 years, a growing number of American women — and particularly women in middle age — have reported binge-drinking, Dr. Keyes said.

“It used to be that 18- to 25-year-old males were the most likely to drink or the most likely to binge,” said Aaron White, a neuroscientist at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Now, binge drinking occurs more among people between the ages of 26 to 34, and is becoming more common among women. “Everything’s just getting pushed back later,” he said.

Demographic shifts can also help explain why women are drinking at higher rates, Dr. Keyes said. Women tend to marry and have children at later ages than in previous decades, so they spend more time in what Dr. Keyes calls a “high-risk period for heavy drinking.”

“People don’t realize the real health consequences these heavy drinking patterns can have,” she added.

These consequences take time to develop and often emerge between ages 40 and 60. Complications can occur after “years of heavy, persistent alcohol use,” Dr. Shuey said.

These longer-term increases in drinking predate the pandemic and might have increased the risk of health problems among women before Covid-19 hit. But higher levels of drinking during lockdowns may have exacerbated these issues or contributed to new complications, especially as women bore the brunt of family responsibilities, Dr. White said.

Even as research mounts on the harms of alcohol, many people might struggle to change their habits, Dr. White said.

“If you’ve been drinking wine with dinner every night for the last 20 years, just seeing a headline is not going to be enough to make you throw your wine away,” he said. “I think it’s going to be a slow cultural shift.”

Dani Blum is a health reporter for The Times. More about Dani Blum

When Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Issues Collide

Co-occurring disorders have taken a toll on celebrities and regular folk alike..

Updated April 5, 2024 | Reviewed by Hara Estroff Marano

• What Is Psychiatry?
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• Many people have a substance use disorder (SUD) and serious psychiatric issue at the same time.
• Experts and the public have struggled with whether drugs caused psychiatric illness or vice versa.
• Carrie Fisher and Matthew Perry may have self-medicated over distress, or SUDs triggered psychiatric ills.
• Sexual, physical, or emotional traumatic events in childhood increase risks for co-occurring disorders.

Often starting in adolescence or young adulthood, many individuals have both a substance abuse disorder and at least one psychiatric disorder, although which diagnosis came first is frequently unclear. This “double trouble” problem is also called “co-occurring disorders (CODS),” as well as “concurrent disorders” and “dual diagnosis.”

The combination of disorders has been discussed in speculative articles about celebrities like Charlie Sheen, Demi Lovato, Justin Bieber, Jhene Aiko, Britney Spears, and Russell Brand. More in-depth scientific and biographic articles about Ernest Hemingway, Carrie Fisher, and Kurt Cobain have helped explain the complexity of CODs. Some of us were mesmerized and sad watching their struggles. Kurt Cobain’s lyrics, performance, and even some of his songs (like “Lithium” and “All Apologies” ) come to my mind as both a fan and a psychiatrist.

But it’s not just celebrities who are suffering from both substance abuse and mental health issues. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2022 , 21.5 million people in the United States had both a substance abuse disorder and a mental illness.

In the past, experts believed it was best to treat one disorder (usually the substance issue) and assumed any psychiatric issues would sort themselves out. However, if the psychiatric issue persisted, it was eventually treated.

In contrast, current thinking is both disorders should be treated in about the same time frame, because ignoring either could be problematic for the patient. If someone is severely depressed, anxious, or has another psychiatric disorder, it may be possible for them to detoxify from a substance, but it’s very hard to develop longer-term control over substance dependence and any accompanying mental illnesses when both issues are not addressed.

For adolescents and young adults with underlying psychiatric disorders, abusing substances provides an unfortunate early opportunity for incorporating bad learning. For example, if they struggle with anxiety , teens may discover that alcohol calms their nerves, making them less anxious about meeting new people or engaging in social interactions. Early self- medication of psychiatric symptoms is double trouble, as alcohol causes brain changes and effects that can trigger alcohol use disorder (AUD.) Some people describe the first drink as magical, that first taste feeling like the key to previously locked-out relief.

More Intense Treatment Is Needed with SUDs Combined with Psychiatric Diagnoses

Individuals diagnosed with co-occurring disorders often need more intense treatment than others due to the complexity of their cases. They also may face greater consequences from their substance abuse compared to patients diagnosed with a mental illness only. Examples of such possible consequences may include a greater exacerbation of their psychiatric symptoms, hallucinations and/or suicidal thinking, an increase in aggressive and violent behaviors, concurrent medical, nutritional, and infectious issues, more emergency room visits than other patients, and a greater number of falls and injuries.

Those with CODs are also more likely to experience head injuries and physical fights with others as well as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Some have a greater frequency of involuntary inpatient psychiatric placements. These patients need a psychiatric assessment and treatment from experts in both addictions and psychiatry.

Possible Causes of CODs

One theory to explain CODS, the self-medication theory, was developed by the late Harvard psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Ed Khantzian, M.D. He assumed anhedonia (the inability to experience pleasure) or suffering in general was the driving force behind addiction. This theory hypothesizes that underlying psychological disorders compel individuals to self-medicate their feelings with alcohol and/or drugs. In addition, patients are sometimes distinguished by their drugs of choice. For instance, patients with an alcohol use disorder might have been battling social anxiety and self-medicating with alcohol for performance anxiety, shyness, or nervousness in social settings; stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine often are used by those with depression or untreated attentional disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The self-medication hypothesis was first put forth in a 1985 cover article in the American Journal of Psychiatry. It focused on how and why individuals are drawn to and become dependent on drugs. The self-medication hypothesis was derived from clinical evaluation and treatment of thousands of patients spanning five decades and remains a credible theory.

As I have stated in the American Journal of Psychiatry , it is one of the most “intuitively appealing theories” about addiction. But drugs of abuse and addiction can also cause psychiatric illnesses by targeting the brain’s mood and pleasure systems and inadvertently undermining them.

Neuroscientist Kenneth Blum developed the theory of reward-deficiency syndrome (RDS) as the cause for co-occurring addictive disorders and psychiatric diagnoses. In many ways, RDS is a natural extension of Khantzian’s theory, but it’s an update, attributing the cause to an underlying dopamine deficiency or neurochemical dysfunction that supports drug-seeking/self-medication.

People with RDS, which may be inherited, are miserably unhappy and their lives may be intolerable due to their inability to gain satisfaction from work, relationships, or their accomplishments.

An emerging, newer approach of “preaddiction” as an early or moderate stage of substance abuse is championed by leaders of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Preaddiction is conceptually analogous to prediabetes, a risk factor for type-2 diabetes. Prediabetes has contributed to a quantum leap in early detection of people at risk for type-2 diabetes, shortened delays between symptom onset and treatment entry before the onset of diabetes, and overall been a remarkable success in halting progression to diabetes. Similarly, the earliest possible detection of substance abuse will save more lives as experts develop and focus on the evolving concept of preaddiction.

A Possible Environmental Cause: Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs)

In the late twentieth century, a large insurance provider in California worked with researchers to identify adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that later reverberated in the lives of adults. The researchers found that individuals who reported the greatest numbers of ACEs—such as physical abuse, sexual abuse , loss of a biological parent, witnessing physical violence, and other severely traumatic childhood events—were significantly more likely than those with no ACEs to have psychiatric problems and substance abuse issues in adulthood. They were also at greater risk for suicidal behaviors.

Nirvana's Kurt Cobain was a person with bipolar disorder , substance use and a heroin habit, according to a cousin who described their family history in detail and noted that two uncles had killed themselves with guns. Cobain, who suicided in 1994, purportedly had at least four ACEs, including witnessing domestic violence , experiencing psychological abuse , being neglected, and suffering from his parents’ divorce . Such a score markedly increased Cobain’s risk for suicide as an adult.

Treatment of CODs Should Not Be Delayed

Although an extensive description of how CODs should best be treated is beyond the scope of this article, the key point is to not delay treatment of one disorder in favor of the other. Instead, as much of a simultaneous approach as possible is best. This often means a team of experts is needed, including a psychiatrist, psychologist, therapists, and others to assess the problem, determine whether inpatient, residential, or outpatient treatment is best, and develop a cohesive treatment plan for the patient.

In opioid use disorder treatment, the current standard of care is to focus on prevention of overdose and replacement of opioids with medication-assisted treatments (MATs.) However, detoxification from opioids or maintenance on a MAT would provide little symptomatic relief for a person with opioid use disorder, suicidal ideas, and bipolar illness.

It is also recommended to evaluate individuals for past or recent trauma and co-occurring psychiatric and medical illnesses and treat patients accordingly. Often this means psychotherapy is needed as well as psychiatric treatments. Psychotherapy may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivation enhancement therapy (MET), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other forms of therapy. Trained and experienced therapists are crucial. Depending on the substance on which patients depend, medication treatment for their detoxification, relapse prevention, and craving may or may not be available. Currently, medication treatments exist for tobacco use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and opioid use disorder.

Summing It Up

Not only celebrities but many people with a substance use disorder have at least one other psychiatric problem, and when this situation occurs, all disorders need to be identified and treated. I recommend professional help in checking for substance use disorders in psychiatric patients and also looking for psychiatric illness and a history of trauma in people with substance use disorders.

Future breakthroughs in genetic and other scientific research should make clearer why some individuals are more prone to such disorders, as well as lead experts toward the best medications, therapies, and other treatments to alleviate much more of this terrible suffering.

Cross, Charles R. Heavier than Heaven : a Biography of Kurt Cobain. New York :Hyperion, 2001.

Gold MS. Dual disorders: nosology, diagnosis, & treatment confusion--chicken or egg? Introduction. J Addict Dis. 2007;26 Suppl 1:1-3. doi: 10.1300/J069v26S01_01. PMID: 19283969.

Buckley PF, Brown ES. Prevalence and consequences of dual diagnosis. J Clin Psychiatry. 2006 Jul;67(7):e01. doi: 10.4088/jcp.0706e01. PMID: 17107226.

Mark S. Gold, M.D., is a pioneering researcher, professor, and chairman of psychiatry at Yale, the University of Florida, and Washington University in St Louis. His theories have changed the field, stimulated additional research, and led to new understanding and treatments for opioid use disorders, cocaine use disorders, overeating, smoking, and depression.

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