Alcohol Dependency

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Alcohol Dependency Dependence is defined as a cluster of three or more existing criteria according to the DSM-IV for alcohol dependency over a period of 12 months. According to Riley, substance abuse is commonly referred to as an addiction. These terms are often used interchangeably. Dependency occurs over time and is usually taken in excessive quantities causing harm to the individual (Riley, 1998). There is no known cause for alcohol dependency. However, there are contributing factors to the etiology of alcohol dependence. These factors are age, gender, cultural differences, depression, and schizoid personality traits. The DSM-IV states, “low educational level, unemployment, and lower socioeconomic status are associated with dependency, although it is often difficult to separate cause from effect” (DSM-IV, 1994, p. 201). Alcohol is more common in males than females with a 5:1 ratio. The reason for the high ratio is because females have a tendency to drink later on in life due to the increase of stressors. There is a link between familial history increasing the risk for alcohol dependency, as well as, a genetic predisposition (DSM-IV, 1994). Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia accompany alcohol dependency along with suicidal ideation. According to the DSM-IV the prognosis for individuals with alcohol dependency is promising. “Follow up studies indicate that highly functioning individuals show a higher than 65 percent 1 year abstinence rate following rehabilitation. Twenty percent or greater of individuals with alcohol dependency achieve sobriety without current treatment” (DSM-IV, 1994, p. 202-3). Most individuals demonstrate self control and are able to actively participate regu... ... middle of paper ... ...nces that can provide opportunities to rediscover interests and rebuild values. Bibliography: References Doniger, J., (1953). An activity program with alcoholics. American journal of occupational therapy, VII, #3. (May-June) (pp. 110-112, 135). Kaplan, H., & Sadock, B., (1998). Synopsis of psychiatry (8th ed.) (pp. 404-406). Baltimore, MA: Williams & Wilkins publishers. Neistadt, M., & Crepeau, E., (1998). Willard & spackman’s occupational therapy (9th ed.) (pp. 724-728). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott. Reed, K., (1991). Quick reference to occupational therapy (pp. 497-501). Gaithersburg, MA: Aspen publishers. Riley, K., Ramsey, R., & Cara, E., (1998). Substance abuse and occupational therapy. In E. Cara, & A. MacRae (eds.), Psychosocial occupational therapy: a clinical practice (pp. 227-260). Albany, NY: Delmar publishers

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