Treating Alcoholism with a No-Fault Atmosphere

Ask anyone if they have ever cut their finger and most will say yes. It can happen to anyone, although the odds go up when people are not paying attention. No one wants or expects to cut their finger. It’s a no-fault wound.

Kind of like alcoholism. Alcoholism is non-discriminate.

Some people are more susceptible than others, but it can happen to anyone. No one wants or expects to develop an addiction. It’s another no-fault wound.

Our response to people with alcoholism should be like our responses to people who cut their finger. We usually begin by expressing concern for the injured person and then proceed to administer first aid care. If necessary we might even follow up with more extensive assistance; for example, stitches and wound coverage, or rehab and a support group in the case of alcohol addiction.

Wounds can be said to heal best in a no-fault atmosphere.

We can avoid cut injuries by making sure to pay attention when using sharp objects as much as possible and limiting distractions. We can prevent alcoholism by providing healthy-drinking guidelines. Although that is not enough to stop harmful drinking, a next step is to target specific groups with focused prevention messages.

When individuals are predisposed by genetics and/or adverse childhood experiences, alcoholism can start and progress rapidly. That’s why it makes good sense for parents, schools, healthcare providers, and others to identify individuals at increased risk, make sure they have adequate emotional support and attractive alternatives to alcohol use, and let them know how important it can be for them to steer clear of addictive substances such as alcohol.

According to the website, Facingaddiction.org, alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States. Alcohol and other forms of addiction can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Long-term alcohol use can cause serious health complications.

Alcohol addiction is also known to damage the individual’s emotional, mental and physical health, financial stability, career, and their family, friends, and community. We can start helping individuals who are at increased risk for alcoholism by simply paying more attention and offering compassionate responses for intervention and treatment.

Help for today. Hope for tomorrow.