Progress And Problems In Treating Alcohol Abusers National Institute On Alcohol Abuse And Alcoholism Department Of Health Education And Welfare

Although progress has been made in the treatment of alcohol abusers as a result of Federal and State efforts, problems still exist in the development of a cohesive national program. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and State planning for treatment programs should concentrate more on: (1) obtaining information on the size of the alcohol-abusing population, its demographic characteristics, and geographic distribution; (2) updating inventories of and capacity data on existing treatment facilities; (3) allocation of funds on the basis of program need as well as population and State financial needs; (4) development of measurable program objectives, and (5) improvement of communication between the Institute and the States. In addition, the Institute needs more formal coordinating procedures for obtaining assistance from other Federal agencies. Progress has been made in better program and project evaluations. Until standards are refined and made final, however, no conclusion can be drawn as to whether changes in drinking patterns are reasonable in relation to the program's costs. Since project objectives were not expressed in quantitative terms and target dates, progress in program-goals achievement was not measurable.

All across the United States, individuals, families, communities, and health care systems are struggling to cope with substance use, misuse, and substance use disorders. Substance misuse and substance use disorders have devastating effects, disrupt the future plans of too many young people, and all too often, end lives prematurely and tragically. Substance misuse is a major public health challenge and a priority for our nation to address. The effects of substance use are cumulative and costly for our society, placing burdens on workplaces, the health care system, families, states, and communities. The Report discusses opportunities to bring substance use disorder treatment and mainstream health care systems into alignment so that they can address a person's overall health, rather than a substance misuse or a physical health condition alone or in isolation. It also provides suggestions and recommendations for action that everyone-individuals, families, community leaders, law enforcement, health care professionals, policymakers, and researchers-can take to prevent substance misuse and reduce its consequences.