The Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. It is the most widely used drug in the world, with over 70% of people in the United States over the age of 18 reporting alcohol consumption within the previous 12 months (Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, 2019).

Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine. Its effects are usually felt within 20 minutes. The amount of alcohol that is absorbed depends on a number of factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the food in the stomach, and the person's body weight. Alcohol affects the brain by slowing down the activity of neurons. This can lead to a number of changes in mood, behavior, and physical functioning.

 Some of the short-term effects of alcohol include: 

• 
  Relaxation
• Euphoria
• Reduced inhibitions
• Increased sociability
• Slurred speech
• Poor coordination
• Reduced reaction time
• Drowsiness
• Blackouts

Alcohol can also have long-term effects on the brain. Heavy drinking over time can damage brain cells and lead to a number of conditions, including:

• 
  Alcohol dependence
• Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
• Dementia
• Stroke
  
• Liver disease
• Heart disease
• Cancer

Alcohol can also be addictive. People who are addicted to alcohol may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop drinking. These symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, nausea, and vomiting.

If you are concerned about your drinking, it is important to talk to a doctor or a therapist. They can help you assess your drinking and develop a plan to reduce or stop drinking.

 Here are some tips for reducing your drinking:

• Set limits on how much you drink.
• Drink slowly and evenly.
• Eat before you drink.
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Drink non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks.
• Take breaks from drinking.
• Have a plan for how you will get home safely if you are drinking.

References 

 Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2019). Foundations of Addictions Counseling (4th ed.).  Pearson Education (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9780135169858

 The History of Addiction Counseling in the United States

Addiction counseling is a relatively new field of specialization within the counseling profession. However, the history of addiction counseling in the United States can be traced back to the early 1800s, when the first temperance movements began to emerge. These movements were aimed at reducing the consumption of alcohol, and they often involved moral persuasion and religious conversion.

In the late 1800s, the first inebriate homes were established. These were residential treatment facilities for people who were struggling with alcohol addiction. The first inebriate homes were modeled after asylums, and they often used aversive conditioning techniques to treat addiction.

In the early 1900s, the focus of addiction treatment began to shift towards a more holistic approach. This approach emphasized the importance of addressing the psychological and social factors that contribute to addiction.

In the 1930s, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded. AA is a self-help group for people who are struggling with alcohol addiction. AA is based on the 12-step model of recovery, and it has been credited with helping millions of people achieve sobriety.

In the 1960s, the field of addiction counseling began to professionalize. The first professional organizations for addiction counselors were established, and the first graduate programs in addiction counseling were developed.

Today, addiction counseling is a well-established profession. Addiction counselors work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and prisons. They provide a variety of services, including individual and group counseling, family therapy, and case management.

The role of addiction counselors is essential in the fight against addiction. They provide hope and support to people who are struggling with addiction, and they help them to achieve sobriety and recovery.

The Role of Professional Counselors in Addiction Treatment

Professional counselors play a vital role in addiction treatment. They provide a variety of services, including:

• Individual and group counseling
• Family therapy
• Case management
• Substance abuse education
• Relapse prevention planning

Counselors help clients to understand their addiction, develop coping skills, and build a strong support network. They also work with clients to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to their addiction, such as mental health problems, trauma, or stress.

The Importance of Professional Licensure

In order to practice addiction counseling, it is important to be licensed by a state

or national board. This ensures that counselors have met certain educational and training requirements. It also ensures that counselors are held accountable for their professional conduct.

If you are struggling with addiction, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional counselor. A counselor can help you to understand your addiction, develop coping skills, and build a strong support network. With the right help, you can achieve sobriety and recovery.

Resources for Addiction Treatment

• The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM): 1-888-637-2726

References

 Capuzzi, David, and Mark D. Stauffer. Foundations of Addictions Counseling. Available     from: VitalSource Bookshelf, (4th Edition). Pearson Education (US), 2019.