Factors Influencing Addictions

Different racial and ethnic groups have varying rates of substance use, development of substance use disorders (SUDs), consequences of use, and access to treatment.

Race refers to physical characteristics; ethnicity relates to cultural factors like language.

Societal expectations (gender roles) influence substance use patterns, even when considering different biological sexes. Men often show higher substance use rates, while women may face higher problems due to alcohol consumption.

The process where a drug moves from the administration site (e.g., oral, injection) to the bloodstream. Factors such as the method of administration influence the absorption rate.

Unequal rates of substance use and related disorders across social categories (race, ethnicity, gender, etc.).

Larger individuals have more body fluid, diluting the drug and reducing concentration at target sites. Smaller individuals have a higher drug concentration due to less dilution.

Women typically have a higher fat-to-water ratio than men, resulting in higher drug concentrations at target sites.

Children have smaller fluid volumes, leading to higher drug concentrations and stronger effects compared to adults.

Women have a lower water content and less Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH) in their stomach, leading to less alcohol breakdown before reaching the bloodstream.

Women tend to develop alcohol use disorders (AUD) and related problems faster and with less time of heavy drinking than men.

Women are more likely to be victims of alcohol-related violence and have higher risks for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) during pregnancy.

Women are more prone to heavy drinking due to psychological distress. Relapse is often linked to negative emotions, while social pressures drive relapse for men.

Women are less likely to seek treatment due to factors like lack of childcare, limited services for pregnant women, and stigma around substance abuse.

People with disabilities may use substances to cope with pain, isolation, and stigma. They have a higher rate of substance use (excluding alcohol) compared to those without disabilities.

Heavy alcohol consumption is a major contributor to disabilities, particularly in older adults. Excessive drinking can lead to alcohol-related disorders and cognitive decline.

Individuals belong to multiple social groups which influences their risk for substance use and related problems. These groups intersect and can interact, creating unique vulnerabilities.

This framework emphasizes the impact of environments on an individual's health and well-being. Environments interact with biological factors, influencing their vulnerability to addictive behaviors.

This framework is multi-level and multi-domain, considering both biological and social factors that contribute to health disparities related to substance use.

These are genetic and biological factors that may increase vulnerability to substance use disorders. They focus on individual characteristics.

These are characteristics of social environments, including factors like poverty, discrimination, or lack of access to resources. These contribute to health disparities in substance use.

The NIMHD framework highlights the cumulative and interactive effects of biological and social factors, influencing substance use and health disparities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals with current or past substance use disorders (SUDs) from discrimination. This includes protection for those seeking or receiving treatment.

Low-income communities often have a higher density of alcohol outlets, making access to alcohol easier and contributing to higher rates of substance use.

National and local policies, as well as societal values like religiosity, shape public perceptions of substance use. These norms influence individual behavior and can either promote or deter substance use.

Substance use disorders often co-exist with other mental health conditions. However, treatment approaches may not adequately address both issues.

Practitioners should prioritize cultural awareness and sensitivity when working with diverse populations. This involves recognizing and understanding the unique experiences and needs of different groups.

It's essential to screen all clients, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or ability, for substance use. Use evidence-based tools and ensure they are culturally appropriate.

Practitioners should consider the impact of acculturation across generations. This involves understanding how different generations within a family may have different cultural experiences and views on substance use.

Practitioners can advocate for policies and programs that address inequalities in access to prevention and treatment services for diverse groups.

Social workers can advocate for policies aimed at controlling alcohol availability and raising the legal drinking age to reduce substance use and related harm.

Treatment programs should be accessible and culturally appropriate for individuals with disabilities, different genders, and diverse cultural backgrounds.

Factors in our social environment that affect our health, like access to resources, exposure to risks, and protective factors.

Four levels that impact health: individual, interpersonal, community, and societal.

Five areas that influence health: biological, behavioral, physical environment, sociocultural environment, and healthcare system.

Individual's genes can influence how likely they are to use substances and develop substance use disorders.

Individuals may turn to substances as a way to deal with challenging life events, like stress or trauma.

Close ties to one's culture of origin can protect against substance use, while acculturation can increase risk.

Individuals with lower socioeconomic status (SES) may have more problems with substance use due to limited resources and access to treatment.

Parenting practices and parent-child relationships strongly influence a child's risk of substance use.

Experiencing discrimination can lead to social isolation and an increased risk of substance use as a coping mechanism.

Cultural competence in healthcare is crucial to ensure patients receive culturally sensitive and effective treatment.

Strong community infrastructure, like good schools, promotes social functioning and reduces the risk of substance use.

Lack of essential resources in a community can limit access to services for substance use and related problems.

Living in a community that shares one's heritage can provide a sense of belonging and protection against substance use.

Barriers like limited language skills, cultural mismatch between patients and providers, and lack of resources can hinder access to treatment.