Professional estimates suggest that approximately 240 million people out of the world’s total population, struggle with alcohol abuse and addiction problems. Some risk factors, like family history and genetics, are well-known, but additional risk factors continue to be discovered. A research study of more than 5,000 adults in the United States suggests that financial turmoil may play a significant role in the development of an alcohol abuse problem.
The study, conducted by the Alcohol Research Group, found that people who had lost their jobs or homes during the 2008-2009 financial crisis and recession had higher rates of alcohol abuse and drinking-related problems than those who remained financially secure for the duration of the crisis. The researchers were not surprised by their findings as it is not uncommon for people to turn to alcohol in times of stress, but the results did suggest statistically significant differences between men and women and found the impact of financial stress on alcohol abuse to be more pronounced in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50.
If you think that you or someone you love may be developing a drinking problem as a result of financial or other forms of stress, you should speak with a certified addiction specialist as soon as possible. Alcohol addiction is a progressive disease and it will get worse if left untreated.
The Asana Recovery Center offers a supervised detoxification and residential treatment program designed to help those at any stage of addiction. Call (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our facilities and find out whether our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program may be right for you.
