ประสบการณ์การผ่านพ้นของผู้ติดสุรา กรณีศึกษาเจ้าหน้าที่ผู้ช่วยเหลือคนไข้ สถาบันบำบัดรักษาและฟื้นฟูผู้ติดยาเสพติดแห่งชาติบรมราชชนนี

Experiences in Overcoming Alcohol Addiction: A case study of Ex-staffs at Princess Mother National Institute on Drug Abuse Treatment.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the study participant experiences in overcoming obstacles and the factors contributing to the permanent cessation of alcohol.  This qualitative research employs a paper-based approach and a field study collecting data from research participants through in-depth interviews and observations. The 12 participants were selected based on the predefined criteria.

          The study found common difficulties encounters by the participants in overcoming alcohol addiction: all alcoholics are faced with obstacles evoking the emotional vulnerability which contributing to self-authorization to consuming alcohol. The identified factors contributing to alcohol addiction are: anticipation of a positive effect on alleviating suffering, life obstacle avoidance, substitution for other drugs use. Alcohol addiction negatively affects. These led to attempt to stop drinking alcohol with the desire to recover from the negative impacts. Realization that alcohol consumption could not permanently assist them in coping with the encountered difficulties along with the desire for their families’ peace of mind.

          However, after a short period of suspension, participants returned to alcohol consumption from factors are as follow: using other drugs as substitution, being in high temptation situation, lack of craving management, lack of necessary skills in coping with difficulties, denial of being an alcoholic, and having positive perception on alcohol consumptions, mingling with friends and the environment where alcohol was consumed including the lack of other life fulfillment and family supports.

          As alcohol addiction begins to have a greater impact, he inflection points are as follow: to challenge the insults/stigmas from others, recognition of self-worth and potential for self-transformation, acknowledging the Illness caused by alcoholism. The driving force behind commitment to stop drinking alcohol are: learning from past experiences, awareness of one's own values and setting life goals, acceptance of past mistakes and self-forgiveness.

          The social support is also a contributing factor to overcoming alcohol addiction, whether from family, friends, religion/spiritual beliefs, hospital staffs and substance abuse network resources. These empowers alcoholics to take the next step in the face of difficulties until finally able to stop drinking alcohol permanently.