This Assignment Will Demonstrate Understanding Of Substance ✓ Solved

This assignment will demonstrate understanding of substance use

This assignment will demonstrate understanding of substance use from the biopsychosocial model. Create a tri-fold brochure or pamphlet. You may use the available brochure and pamphlet templates in Microsoft Word. Make sure your brochure or pamphlet is visually appealing and can be used as a method to present to clients in various settings. Address the following in your assignment: Choose a substance that is used with the potential for abuse (i.e., alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, opioids).

Briefly introduce the substance. Using the Biopsychosocial Model, explain why someone uses this substance. Address how media influences substance use (i.e., music/concerts, social media, celebrities). Discuss the health risks, ramifications and/or benefits associated with the substance. Identify treatments/techniques used to treat addiction associated with the substance.

Include an explanation of how these treatments/techniques are implemented. Use a minimum of three to four scholarly resources to support the content in your brochure or pamphlet. Each section in the brochure or pamphlet should have a clear title heading (i.e., Substance, Use/Abuse, Media Influence, Risks/Benefits, Treatments).

Paper For Above Instructions

The substance chosen for this brochure is alcohol, a widely used substance that poses a significant potential for abuse. Alcohol consumption is a global phenomenon ingrained in various cultures for centuries. However, with its extensive availability and social acceptance, many individuals engage in its use, often leading to serious health and societal issues. This brochure will explore the biopsychosocial factors influencing alcohol use, the impact of media on drinking behaviors, associated health risks, and available treatment methods for alcohol-related addiction.

Substance: Alcohol

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that depresses the central nervous system, affecting mood, behavior, and cognition. It is categorized as a legal recreational drug in most parts of the world, contributing to its widespread consumption. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), over 54% of adults in the United States reported that they drank alcohol in the past month, and approximately 14.5 million adults had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in 2019 (NIAAA, 2020). The accessibility and acceptability of alcohol often overshadow the risks associated with its misuse.

Use/Abuse: Biopsychosocial Model

Understanding alcohol use through the biopsychosocial model involves examining biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to why individuals consume this substance. Biologically, some people may possess a genetic predisposition to addiction. Certain genes affect the metabolism of alcohol, which might lead to heightened cravings or reduced sensitivity to its effects (Edenberg & Koller, 2018).

Psychologically, individuals may use alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, anxiety, or mental health disorders such as depression. Alcohol can provide temporary relief from these issues, reinforcing a cycle of use that can evolve into abuse. Socially, environmental factors such as peer pressure, availability of alcohol, and cultural norms surrounding drinking can significantly influence an individual’s drinking behavior. In gatherings or celebrations, alcohol is often portrayed as a necessary component, leading to increased consumption patterns (Berkowitz, 2018).

Media Influence

Media plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and behaviors toward alcohol use. The portrayal of drinking in movies, music, and social media often glamorizes excessive drinking. For instance, music lyrics frequently celebrate partying and alcohol use, which can lead to increased acceptance of heavy drinking among young audiences (Moreno et al., 2018). Social media platforms further exacerbate this influence, as users commonly share images of alcohol consumption, creating a social norm that encourages drinking. Celebrities endorsing alcoholic beverages can also serve as role models, directly influencing their followers' drinking behaviors (Dunn et al., 2020).

Risks/Benefits

While moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with certain social benefits, such as enhanced relaxation and sociability, the potential health risks associated with alcohol misuse far outweigh the benefits. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to numerous health complications, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and increased risk of cancers (Rehm et al., 2017). Furthermore, alcohol abuse often leads to psychological issues, such as depression and anxiety, and can contribute to social problems like relationship issues and legal troubles.

Conversely, when consumed responsibly, some research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption could have a protective effect against coronary heart disease, but this does not apply universally and should not serve as a justification for alcohol use (Costanzo et al., 2010). Overall, it is essential to weigh the risks heavily against any perceived benefits.

Treatments

Addressing alcohol use disorder requires a multifaceted approach encompassing various treatment techniques. Common treatment options include behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, and support groups. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown efficacy in helping individuals recognize and alter their drinking patterns by addressing thoughts and behaviors associated with alcohol use (Sinha, 2018). Medications such as Naltrexone and Acamprosate can assist in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making abstinence more achievable (Johnson et al., 2011).

Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), provide essential social support and shared experiences, aiding in the recovery process. These groups foster a community among individuals with similar struggles, promoting accountability and encouragement throughout their journey to sobriety.

Implementation of Treatments

The implementation of these treatments often begins with a comprehensive assessment of the individual's alcohol use history and personal circumstances. Tailoring the treatment plan to fit the individual's needs is critical for success. Behavioral therapies are usually conducted in clinical settings or through teletherapy, allowing for greater flexibility. Pharmacotherapy is initiated under medical supervision, focusing on titrating dosages to manage symptoms effectively.

Support groups typically meet regularly, providing a forum for sharing experiences and developing coping strategies. These interventions often work best when combined, emphasizing a holistic approach to recovery that addresses the myriad factors influencing alcohol use.

In conclusion, understanding alcohol use through the biopsychosocial model illustrates the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to its consumption. Media influences dramatically impact perceptions of alcohol use, often exacerbating misuse. Addressing the associated risks and providing effective treatment strategies are essential for mitigating the negative consequences of alcohol use disorder. Through a comprehensive and supportive approach, individuals can reclaim control over their lives and reduce their reliance on alcohol.

References

  • Berkowitz, A. D. (2018). Fostering healthy norms to reduce student drinking: A review of the literature. Journal of American College Health, 66(4), 302-312.
  • Costanzo, S., et al. (2010). Moderate alcohol consumption and mortality: A review of the evidence. European Journal of Public Health, 20(3), 289-293.
  • Dunn, M. E. et al. (2020). The influence of celebrity endorsements on alcohol use in youth: A systematic review. Health Education Research, 35(5), 405-416.
  • Edenberg, H. J., & Koller, K. (2018). The genetics of alcohol use disorder. Alcohol Research, 39(1), 73-82.
  • Johnson, B. A., et al. (2011). Pharmacological treatments for alcohol dependence. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(1), 115-128.
  • Moreno, M. A., et al. (2018). Media influences on adolescent alcohol use: A systematic review. Journal of Adolescent Health, 62(5), 619-627.
  • NIAAA. (2020). Alcohol Facts and Statistics. Retrieved from NIAAA website.
  • Rehm, J., et al. (2017). The relationship between alcohol and health: A worldwide status report. The Lancet, 390(10101), 1930-1940.
  • Sinha, R. (2018). The role of stress in addiction relapse. Current Psychiatry Reports, 20(10), 88.