Alcoholism In Australia

757 Words4 Pages
1.0 Introduction Alcoholism is a major social and health condition prevalent in Australia as well as the rest of the world. It causes, illness, disease, violence and death in its victims. The harmful use of alcohol results in approximately 2.5 million deaths each year, a net loss of life of 2.25 million (World Health Organisation, 2011). The case study of Derek Donald is a prime example of what alcoholism can do and the outcome of it. As the social health condition continues to grow so does the cost on the social economy. In Australia, the cost of directly treating alcohol use disorders in 2004/5 was estimated at $15.3 billion annually (Collins and Lapsley, 2008). Through correct treatment programs and a health professional team patients…show more content…
It can cause injuries, acute illnesses, chronic diseases and cancer and lastly death if not treated upon. If such diseases are not treated upon many of them can become life threatening. The excessive consumption of alcohol can causes major social impact to not only the consumer but also the community. The consumer becomes addicted to the use of alcohol causing a great impact on their social life. As seen in the case study of Derek Donald who has lost contact with his family members as a result of his hazardes drinking and the effect it has on everyone around him. Also seen by Derek it can contribute to the loss of drivers licence, a job and a house causing life to be very difficult. Intoxicated consumers in the public or local community can cause harm and inappropriate behaviour. This effects by standers who are near…show more content…
Rehabilitation can run between a 6 and 12 month program. The treatment consists of a number of therapy sessions to help patients recover from alcohol withdrawal. Sessions can range from motivational, psychological or self help groups to others such as muscular relaxation. The patients’ progress is monitored through out the treatment with regular breath and blood testing. 5.0 Health care team Throughout the treatment of alcoholism in Australia there are a number of health care professionals required to treat the medical and social health condition of alcoholism. For the treatment of detoxification a general nurse or a specialist nurse in the area of alcoholism can administer medication. During rehabilitation a number of Psychologist, Psychotherapists and Psychiatrists are necessary to assist in both mental and therapeutical therapy sessions. Social workers play a major role in the rehabilitation stage as many alcoholics have lost their jobs as well as support of family members. These individual health care teams work closely together as an inter professional team. In order 6.0
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