1) First of all, please complete the self-assessment, Check Your Health Risks Regarding Alcohol and Drug Use, in the textbook (page 336) and post a comment that addresses the following:
Which of the 15 items really made you think about either your alcohol drinking or the alcohol drinking of a friend or acquaintance (no names necessary)? Please explain.
2) Next, do you believe that total abstinence from alcohol is the only solution for people with alcohol use disorder? Why or why not?
3) Now that you have reflected on these questions, you need to return to the Discussion Forum at a later time and reply to another student’s posted comment. Your reply has to be directly relevant to the other student’s posting (vague and general replies like “I think that’s cool what you posted” do not count).
- Brannon, L., Updegraff, J., & Feist, J. (2022). Health psychology: An introduction to behavior and health (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage. ISBN: 9780357375006 (soft-cover), 9780357375051 (loose-leaf).
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor responsible for creating assignments and evaluating student performance in a medical college, it is essential to prioritize the development of critical thinking skills and knowledge application in the field of health. In this particular case, we will address questions related to alcohol use and alcohol use disorder, which are significant concerns in medical practice. The main goal is to promote understanding of the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption and the treatment options available for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
Answer to Question 1:
Completing the self-assessment in the textbook provided valuable insights into personal alcohol drinking habits or those of friends or acquaintances. One item that made me pause and reflect was item number 7, which asks about the frequency of drinking alcohol shortly after waking up. This question raised concerns about potential signs of alcohol dependence and its impact on daily functioning. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing patterns of alcohol use that might indicate a deeper issue.
Answer to Question 2:
While total abstinence from alcohol may be necessary for some individuals with alcohol use disorder, it is not the only solution for everyone. Alcohol use disorder exists on a spectrum, and treatment approaches should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs. For some individuals, moderation management and harm reduction strategies may be effective in maintaining control over their alcohol consumption. However, for others with severe alcohol use disorder, total abstinence might be the only viable option to achieve sustainable recovery. It is crucial to consider the individual’s unique circumstances, preferences, and level of addiction when determining the appropriate treatment approach.
Answer to Question 3:
When replying to another student’s posted comment, it is essential to provide a relevant and meaningful response. For instance, if the other student shared their personal experience with alcohol use disorder or their struggles in managing their alcohol consumption, one could respond with empathy and support. It is important to acknowledge their journey, offer encouragement, and potentially share relevant resources or strategies that might be helpful in their situation. Engaging in a constructive dialogue can foster a sense of community and provide additional insights for both parties involved.
