5 Things Journalists Should Know About Alcoholism

Alcohol, a psychoactive substance deeply ingrained in cultural practices for centuries, possesses addictive properties leading to dependence. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) characterizes alcohol use disorder as a persistent struggle to regulate intake despite adverse consequences across various life domains. Its misuse imposes a substantial burden on public health and society at large. However, there is a widespread lack of awareness regarding the negative effects of alcohol consumption on both health and safety worldwide.

Coverage of alcohol in the media helps educate individuals about the significant health and societal challenges posed by alcohol, along with the underlying factors contributing to these issues and effective prevention strategies.

Here’s some valuable information to know before you write your next story.

The Prevention Paradox

It is commonly believed that a small subset of individuals endures the most alcohol-related harm. Yet alcohol-related issues such as cancers, accidents, and violence affect a broad spectrum of the population, including those who consume alcohol in small or moderate amounts. While heavy drinkers face significant risks, they represent only a fraction of the total casualties attributed to alcohol. This phenomenon, known as the "prevention paradox," highlights that most alcohol-related harm occurs among low-to-moderate risk drinkers due to their prevalence in society.

Alcoholism Is Not Always Visible

As with addiction to narcotics, individuals in the throes of alcoholism are often struggling in secret and those struggles are not so obvious until they are in the later—and more dangerous—stages of their addiction. Alcohol dependence tends to slowly creep up on the individuals who are using it at an increasing frequency. Long before any serious health complications show up, daily use becomes necessary to alleviate the visible symptoms such as shaky hands. At this point, individuals struggling with alcohol are using it as a form of maintenance.

Alcoholism Does Not Stem from Individual Choice

Alcoholism is not simply a matter of personal decisionmaking. Addiction is characterized by profound behavioral and psychological alterations, creating daunting challenges to recovery. Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are four times more susceptible to developing alcohol-related issues compared to the general population. For many, it is an uphill battle from the start. 

Alcohol Withdrawal Versus Detox

With prolonged use, the body adapts to alcohol's presence, leading to dependence. During withdrawal, the central nervous system strives to rebalance without alcohol, resulting in hyperactivity and symptoms like rapid heart rate, elevated temperature, and sweating, similar to those experienced during a hangover. Withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, headache, and anxiety likely manifest shortly after halting use, while detox, a more severe form of withdrawal, poses a risk of seizures, hallucinations, and even death, especially among long-term heavy drinkers. If an individual has been drinking long enough to be at a level of detox when quitting, they will need to slowly titrate down in use or ideally use benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam to manage the symptoms.

Stopping the Cycle is Ultimately in Everyone’s Power

Studies suggest that short interventions, including non-confrontational conversations with healthcare providers such as nurses, have the potential to encourage individuals engaging in high-risk alcohol consumption to consider or plan adjustments to their drinking behaviors. If there's apprehension about discussing concerns with doctors or nurses face-to-face, numerous online resources and support groups are available, connecting individuals facing alcohol-related challenges with others experiencing similar struggles. Building a supportive community and embracing accountability can often catalyze positive change. In cases where additional support is needed, rehabilitation clinics offer an excellent opportunity to transform one's life trajectory.

By reporting on alcoholism with accuracy, sensitivity, and depth, journalists can help debunk myths, challenge stigmas, and promote informed dialogue about this complex issue. Through their reporting, journalists can educate the public about the prevalence of alcohol-related harm, the challenges of addiction, and the importance of prevention and support services. By shining a light on the stories of individuals affected by alcoholism, the issue can be humanized as well as inspire empathy and compassion. Ultimately, by providing balanced and insightful coverage, journalists can contribute to efforts to address alcoholism and support those struggling with addiction on their journey to recovery.