Drinking Problems
Not all drinking problems are alcoholism. There is also alcohol abuse. This type of abuse is easily recognized as there is no real physical craving for alcohol, but rather more of an emotional need to get drunk. Still, it is dangerous as the amount consumed can be extremely high during these escapades. Abuse in any form is not healthy and sometimes, when approached by what is termed as a brief intervention, can be dealt with in an effective manner. These sessions are short and quick, ranging from 1 session to 4, to find the cause of the drinking.
Literature on drinking problems is provided that outlines what is discussed in the counseling sessions, and reinforce what has been learned about one’s self in relation to alcohol. Strategies are discussed with usual follow up by phone or email. Encouragement and follow up are maintained along these lines also. This sort of intervention is done by a professional specifically trained in brief interventions. This may be a doctor, a nurse, social worker and even peer counselors are taking to this role. There is a goal to obtain through this innovative treatment, and that is to completely change the pattern of the drinking problems. Decreasing the drinking is also thought to be attainable.
It’s also very effective in the case of pregnancy. The woman can enter treatment and abstain from alcohol during the pregnancy. These interventions are most successful when the patient has established a bond of trust with the counselor, making the transition easier. It seems an authority figure in the role of counselor is also a trademark of successful intervention. Young and old alike are responding very favorably to this regimen of counseling. Counselors search for the “teachable moments”, such as when they are in legal trouble due to drinking problems.
You will find brief interventions taking place in some nontraditional environments such as the emergency rooms. Thirty one percent of those appearing in ER’s across the country are identified as someone with alcoholic concerns. Their reason for being there is usually an alcohol related accident or illness. Younger adults are more likely to present themselves to ER for treatment, making this a valuable chance to intervene in their pattern of drinking and examine it more closely. The courts also offer a common “teachable moment”. Though not thought as effective in this setting, the drinking problems are usually very serious.
The prenatal setting is an excellent outreach to those woman expecting children. The education here can make such a difference in the lives of the mothers and their children. Explanation of birth defects and fatalities suffered by the mother’s consumption of alcohol can be discussed in a non confrontational way. Even more effective is when husbands or significant others attend. Mothers are motivated to make their drinking obsolete in favor of delivering a happy and healthy child.
The college setting is also a great place that is geared toward teachable moments. Drinking problems responding to brief intervention is very high.
