Alcoholism and Addiction among the Indian Communities Essay Example
Alcoholism and Addiction in Indian Communities
The problem of alcoholism in Indian communities is a persistent issue that has been ongoing for a long time. Numerous studies have shown that the prevalence of alcoholism continues to be a major concern, posing significant risks to public health (Yuan et al., 2010, p. 1910). The excessive consumption of alcohol is closely linked to higher rates of alcohol-related diseases within this population. Alongside cirrhosis, Indian communities also face an increased vulnerability to different chronic liver illnesses.
The excessive consumption of alcohol in Indian communities can result in a higher likelihood of fatal accidents caused by driving under the influence. According to Beauvais (1998), alcoholism and addiction within these communities have multiple causes, including the influence of European colonialists. This study seeks to extensively examine the issue of alcoholism and addiction among Indian
...communities. It is believed that alcohol consumption originated during colonial times and has continued through successive generations (Beauvais, 1998, p.253).
Prior to colonization, these communities had limited understanding and exposure to the production and consumption of alcohol. Nonetheless, with the arrival of European colonialists, a variety of brewing and distilling techniques were introduced to these communities. Consequently, there was a significant surge in the demand for alcohol, prompting early traders to adopt it as a form of currency (Beauvais, 1998, p. 253).
Alcoholism and addiction are common problems in Indian communities due to various contributing factors. According to research by Yuan et al. (2010, p. 1915), individuals in these communities often resort to alcohol as a means of relieving boredom. This inclination towards apathy is a result of limited opportunities, which leads to a higher prevalence of alcohol addiction among
unemployed adolescents and adults within these communities. Furthermore, members of Indian communities associate their alcohol consumption with psychological, social, and financial challenges (Yuan et al., 2010, p.
In 1915, research found that alcoholism is widespread among Indian communities and is the primary cause of different alcohol-related illnesses and deaths within their population. The study shows that a considerable number of individuals from these communities experience alcohol-related diseases and fatalities in the age range of 45 to 64, which is the most vulnerable group for such incidents. Additionally, apart from liver conditions such as cirrhosis and chronic liver diseases, fatalities resulting from impaired driving leading to road accidents are also associated with alcohol abuse (Beauvais, 1998, p. 255).
The problem of alcoholism and addiction has been persistent in Indian communities, with research suggesting that this issue began during the colonial period. Before colonization, these communities had limited understanding of drinking alcohol. However, with the arrival of European colonists, a significant shift occurred and alcohol consumption became widespread.
Research indicates that a significant number of adolescents and adults suffer from alcohol addiction. This addiction is primarily linked to unemployment, as it leads them to rely on alcohol for entertainment and relief from boredom. Unfortunately, these communities have experienced numerous instances of alcohol-related illnesses and deaths due to excessive drinking. These include cirrhosis, chronic liver diseases, and road accidents, as many individuals choose to drive while under the influence of alcohol.
Reference
- Bauvais, Fred. 1998. “American Indians and Alcohol.” Spotlight on Special Populations 22, no. 4: 253-259. Retrieved from http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh22-4/253.pdf
- Yuan, Nicole P., Emery R.
Eaves, Mary P. Koss, Mona Polacca, Keith Bletzer, and David Goldman. 2010. "“Alcohol is Something That
Been With Us Like a Common Cold”: Community Perceptions of American Indian Drinking."
The link to access Academic Search Premier on EBSCOhost was retrieved from http://eds.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=6530a017-0e61-48b5-8d85-20adc4c7bada%40sessionmgr4004&vid=2&hid=4108 on January 24, 2016.
