Alcoholism in New Mexico
Alcoholism is not only a problem in New Mexico, but across the United States. Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a serious problem that is made up of four major symptoms. The first symptom is cravings. This is when an individual experiences a strong need or compulsion to drink. The next symptom is loss of control. An example of this would be the individual's inability to limit their drinking on any given occasion, possibly ending with a nausea and blacking out. Physical dependence is another symptom. These symptoms usually become noticeable when the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety. These physical effects take place when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking. Tolerance is the last symptom of alcoholism. This is when the individual needs to drink greater amounts of alcohol in order to "get drunk."
The consequences of alcoholism in New Mexico are serious and in many cases life threatening. Heavy drinking can increase the risk for certain cancers, especially those of the liver, esophagus, throat, and larynx (voice box). Alcoholism can also cause liver cirrhosis, immune system problems, brain damage, and harm to the fetus during pregnancy. In addition, drinking increases the risk of death from automobile crashes as well as recreational and on-the-job injuries. Furthermore, both homicides and suicides are more likely to be committed by persons who have been drinking. In purely economic terms, alcohol-related problems cost society approximately $185 billion per year. In human terms, the costs cannot be calculated.
Most alcohol-only drug rehab treatment admissions in 2006 which were referred by the criminal justice system were not abstainers (past month use, whether daily or less than daily—60 percent; abstainers—40 percent).
The analgesic properties of PCP may cause individuals to feel less pain, and persist in violent or injurious acts as a result.
Specific populations of American Indian adolescents who completed programs which incorporated peer counseling, enhancing adolescents coping skills, and alcohol education were found to use less alcohol than their peers who did not complete the program.