Understanding and Addressing Alcohol Addiction in the Case of Alexa

by | May 8, 2024 | EDUCATION

 

Case 1:

AlcoholAlexa is 32 years old and has memories of being surrounded by alcohol use and abuse from a very early age and describes both her parents as heavy drinkers with many memories of her father often being drunk and unpleasant to be with. At 17, Alexa entered the Army, following in her fathers footsteps and those of her two brothers. She describes herself as being a relatively light drinker before this but found the army culture to be one of heavy drinking; and she soon became a regular daily and binge drinker. Alexa left the army in her late twenties following a period of conflict-related post-traumatic stress, which she increasingly used alcohol to treat; refusing at that time help offered by military services. As a civilian Alexa has found it difficult to keep jobs and has been dismissed on one occasion for being intoxicated and on another for being aggressive towards colleagues. Her last relationship also ended because of excessive drinking and continuous arguments with her partner. For the last two years Alexa has not had her own home and has spent spells sofa surfing at friends homes as well as occasionally rough sleeping. Alexa thinks she consumes around a bottle of vodka (or whatever I can afford) or more a day and has recently come to the attention of treatment services because of stealing alcohol. She is currently on probation for threatening a shop keeper with a knife when he challenged her attempting to steal alcohol. Alexa reports feeling very isolated, miserable and as having destroyed relationships with friends and family through being drunk; the only time she feels at ease is when she starts to drink. She feels now is the time to change.

1. Explain the individuals addictive behaviour with reference to relevant addiction theories and research and then,
2.Critically discuss TWO appropriate treatments/interventions, with reference to relevant evidence to justify the appropriateness of your choice treatments/interventions for that particular addiction

Sample Answer

Sample Answer

 

Essay: Understanding and Addressing Alcohol Addiction in the Case of Alexa

Understanding Alexa’s Addictive Behavior

Alexa’s journey into alcohol addiction can be comprehensively explained through the lens of relevant addiction theories. The biopsychosocial model provides a holistic framework to understand her situation. The biological component suggests a genetic predisposition due to her family history of heavy drinking. Psychologically, Alexa’s experiences in the army and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have contributed to her reliance on alcohol as a coping mechanism. Socially, her upbringing in an environment where alcohol abuse was normalized, coupled with the army culture of heavy drinking, further reinforced her addictive behavior.

Moreover, self-medication theory can explain how Alexa turned to alcohol to alleviate the symptoms of PTSD and emotional distress. The substance provided temporary relief from her inner turmoil, leading to a cycle of dependency as she increasingly relied on alcohol to cope with her challenges.

Appropriate Treatments/Interventions for Alexa

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely recognized and evidence-based therapeutic approach for addressing addiction. In Alexa’s case, CBT can help her identify and challenge maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with alcohol use. By working with a therapist, she can learn coping strategies to manage triggers, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and address underlying trauma contributing to her addiction. Research has shown that CBT is effective in reducing alcohol consumption and improving mental well-being in individuals with substance use disorders.

2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines behavioral therapy with medications to treat substance use disorders effectively. For alcohol addiction, medications like disulfiram, naltrexone, or acamprosate can be prescribed alongside counseling and support. Disulfiram, for instance, creates an aversion to alcohol by inducing unpleasant effects if consumed, while naltrexone reduces cravings and the pleasurable effects of alcohol. MAT has been proven to enhance treatment outcomes, reduce relapse rates, and support long-term recovery in individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.

Justification for the Chosen Treatments/Interventions

– CBT: Given Alexa’s history of trauma, emotional distress, and self-destructive behaviors, CBT can empower her to address the root causes of her addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms. By targeting cognitive distortions and teaching adaptive skills, CBT can help Alexa break free from the cycle of alcohol dependence and improve her mental well-being.

– MAT: Considering Alexa’s severe addiction and daily alcohol consumption, pharmacological support through MAT can aid in managing withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and preventing relapse. The combination of medication with behavioral therapy offers a comprehensive approach to addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, increasing the likelihood of successful recovery for individuals with severe alcohol use disorder.

In conclusion, understanding Alexa’s addictive behavior through relevant addiction theories and implementing evidence-based treatments like CBT and MAT can provide her with the necessary tools and support to overcome alcohol addiction, regain control of her life, and work towards a healthier and more fulfilling future.

By analyzing Alexa’s case through addiction theories and proposing appropriate treatments backed by evidence, we can outline a comprehensive approach to address her alcohol addiction effectively and compassionately.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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