Kaplan University Complimentary & Alternative Medicine Subtle Body & Energy Management HW499 Tonia Weakland-Wilhelm 01/17/2012

 Complimentary & Alternative Medicine  Subtle Body & Energy Management

Syllabus

Welcome to An Introduction to the Energy Body. This class is designed to introduce the concepts of the energetic body, with focus on the chakra system. Working on balancing our energy can lead to a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Gain an understanding of the theory of the Chakra System.
2. Identify the location of the Chakras.
3. Understand how energy effects our lives.
4. Explore methods of working with energy to bring balance to our lives. 

Class Guidelines

1. Be on time and come prepared to move. 
2. Bring a pen and a dedicated notebook or journal.
3. Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move through your range of motion.
4. Do not eat an hour before class. 
5. Drink plenty of water. 
6. Do not force or strain your body.
7. Please respect the confidentiality of other students by keeping to yourself any personal information shared with the class. 

Attendance and Grading

This class is free and open to the public. Spaces are limited, so we ask that you attend all three sessions, be punctual and stay for the duration of the class. There is no grade or credit for the course.

Recommended Reading 

Usui, Grimm, The Original Reiki Handbook of Dr. Usui, Lotus Press

Shomsky, Exploring Chakras Awaken Your Untapped Energy, Shomsky

Swami Durgananda, The Heart of Meditation, Siddha Yoga Publications

Lecture Notes

Location: San Francisco City College, inside the Wellness Center, Yoga classroom

Chakras:

What are chakras?

What do they represent?

Ways to work with them...

Yoga: 

Ancient wisdom, scriptures

movement, asana, meditation, chanting

 Reiki:

Newer system of energetic healing touch, distance healing meditation

Tools for working with the chakras:

Color; each chakra is assigned a color. Working with color can bring balance to the chakras. Light, Stones, Sound, Flower Essences, Teas, Food

Each class will have a component of 

lecture/ discussion

movement/ activity

meditation

refreshments

1. Class 1
1. Introduction to Chakra System
2. Hatha Yoga practice
3. Guided Meditation
1. Instruct each student to collect a yoga matt, two blocks and two blankets
2. Handout syllabus and Color Chakra Chart
3. Students should bring a journal to each class. 

Lecture:

1. Explain the subtle body.
1. What is the subtle body?

The subtle body is our energy body. Compare it to an electrical system. It consists of our life force energy. known as “Prana” in Yoga or “Qi” in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Kundalini is the primary energy center located in the coccyx. 72,000 energy channels run throughout the body. 7 wheels of energy or “Chakras” are located along the midline of the body from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. These are spinning vortexes of light and energy which have measurable electromagnetic fields that vary in size and strength based on the location and the individual. 

1. Where are the chakras? 

The chakras originate at the base of the spine, running up the midline of the body. They are at the perineum, the lower abdomen, upper abdomen, heart center, throat, forehead, top of the head and there are also chakras located in the hands and feet.

1. Explain what symbolizes each chakra and describe which aspects of our selves they represent.

1. Muladhara: The Root Chakra is located at the base of the tailbone. 

1. Organs: adrenals, colon, lymph, skeleton, male reproductive
2. Description: grounding, survival, security
3. Color: Red
4. Seed Sound: LAM
5. Poses: Standing: Mountain, Chair, Tree

1. Swathishthana: The sacral chakra is located below the navel. 
1. Organs: Female Reproductive Organs, Kidneys, Spleen, Skin
2. Description: emotions, creativity, sexuality
3. Color: Orange
4. Seed Sound: Vam
5. Poses: Standing forward fold, Cobra, Butterfly
2. Manipura: The solar plexus is located in the upper abdomen.
1. Organs: Liver, Stomach, Pancreas, Gall Bladder, Muscular System, Diaphragm, Peripheral Nervous System
2. Element: Fire
3. Description: Our power center, self confidence, vital energy
4. Color: Yellow
5. Seed Sound: Ram
6. Poses: Warrior poses, Spinal twists
3. Anahata: This is the heart chakra. It has the largest electromagnetic field, bigger than the brain. 
1. Organs: Heart, Circulatory System, Lungs, Thymus Gland, Lymph Glands, Lungs, Arms and hands
2. Description: Pure love, courage, peace
3. Color: Green or Pink
4. Seed Sound: Yam
5. Poses: Backbends, Wheel, Bow, Camel, Queen’s pose
4. Vishudha: This chakra is located in the throat.
1. Organs: Thyroid, Hypothalamus, Mouth
2. Description: Communication, Self Expression, Speech
3. Color: Blue
4. Seed Sound: Ham
5. Poses: Bridge, Shoulder stand, Fish
5. Ajna: Known as the Third Eye, this chakra is located between the eyebrows. 
1. Organs: Pituitary Gland, Central Nervous System, Left eye, Nose, Ears
2. Description: Vision, Intellect, Intuition
3. Color: Indigo/ Purple
4. Seed Sound: Aum
5. Poses: Meditation postures, Lotus, Hero, Simple Cross legged
6. Sahasrara: The Crown chakra is located at the top of the head. 
1. Organs: Pinneal Gland, Central Nervous System, Cerebral Cortex, Right Eye
2. Description: Inspiration, Enlightenment, Union
3. Color: White/ Violet
4. Seed Sound: Silence
5. Poses: Meditative postures, Inversions, Head Stand, Hand Stand, Down Dog 

Asana Practice

1. Mountain Pose

2. Standing forward fold

3. Warrior 1, Warrior 2

4. Standing Bow, Camel

5. Fish Pose, Bridge Pose

6. Hero, Lotus or Simple Crossed Legged

7. Down Dog or Hand Stand at wall

1. Savasana: Final Relaxation with guided meditation
1. Have students lye flat on their backs with palms face up and legs about hip distance apart. Have them become aware of deep breathing. Bring an awareness to each chakra having them envision the color, reviewing the meaning of the energy center. 

Refreshments:

Fruit: strawberry (1st), banana, (3rd), blueberry (5th) 

Tranquilitea

Explain how the color of food can effect our energy. Mention how it is of course best to have pure, organic, non-contaminated food. 

Class 2 

Handout Anatomy of the Subtle Body

1. Discussion: The importance of learning to manage our energy is to lead a balanced life. When we are balanced in body, mind and spirit, we are more capable of creating the life we desire rather than reacting to events that happen to us. When we are out of balance we reflect our negative qualities and are more prone toward dis-ease. When in balance it is easier to remain present, receptive and be at peace within ourselves. Let’s explore the way balance versus imbalance in the chakras can effect our lives. 

Chakra	Energy	Balance	Imbalance
1st Root	Ground	Earth Connection Strong Foundation	Survival Fear Insecurity
2nd Sacral Plexus	Feeling	Creative Expression Sexual Fulfillment Harmony	Taking Things Personally Worry
3rd Solar Plexus	Power	Positive Self Image Vitality	False Ego External Focus
4th Heart	Love	Open Love Expression  Bridge Body Mind Spirit	Drama Disconnect Inability to Show Love
5th Throat	Communication	Clear Communication Express Vision Develop Ways to Realize Vision	Limited Expression Communication Blocks
6th Third Eye	Clear Vision	See the Big Picture Intuitive Vision	Unclear or Limited Vision Mental Chatter
7th Crown	Higher Self	Higher Consciousness Integrate Body Spirit Life Purpose	Depression Physical Mental Emotional Depletion

1. Health maintenance, healing, preventing disease
1. Disease starts on an energetic level.
2. Chronic stress makes us more susceptible to disease.
3. Living an energetically balanced life will help us to stay healthy, preventing disease. 
4. Integrating CAM techniques can help to support the healing process. 
1. reversing the course of disease 
2. support healing
3. chronic disease and pain management
2. Yoga and Reiki are ways to balance the chakras. 
3. Use of color, sound, nutrition and herbal supplements can also be supportive. 

1. Asana practice; same as day 1, but with more advanced variations depending on the ability of the students. 

1. Mountain Pose, Tree

2. Standing forward fold, sunrise sunset

3. Warrior 1, Warrior 2, variations

4. Standing Bow, Camel

5. Fish Pose, Bridge Pose, wheel

6. Hero, Lotus or Simple Crossed Legged

7. Down Dog or Hand Stand at wall

1. Savasana: Final Relaxation with guided meditation
1. Have students lye flat on their backs with palms face up and legs about hip distance apart. Have them become aware of deep breathing. Bring an awareness to each chakra having them envision the color, and chanting the seed sound of each chakra. 

1.   Refreshments:,, tangerines (2nd), fresh mint (4th), dark chocolate (6th) 

Class 3

Energy Management

1. Describe what Reiki is; Reiki balances and heals through touch. It is universal life force energy. It is safe to use on anyone and generally does not interfere with religious beliefs.  
2. How did Reiki evolve? Yogis have been working with the Chakras for 3000 years, but Reiki was developed only  about 150 years ago by Dr. Usui, from Japan. He made it his life’s mission to discover the way to heal through the hands as it was said could be done in the Bible. He traveled the world, studying many different religions and spiritual texts. It was in Tibet where he found ancient Vedic scriptures written in sanskrit, with the keys to unlock this hidden treasure of healing power. 
1. Usui developed the system he would call Reiki, a laying of hands over the chakras to balance and heal. Usui worked with beggars in the city to help them to turn their lives around. The healings helped for a while, but it was their own unwillingness to change that kept them from turning their lives around. He turned his attention to working with people who really wanted to make a positive change and placed a value on the services. He found that when people valued the treatments, they were more receptive to them and it made a real difference in their lives. 
2. In order to transmit Reiki through the hands, one must be attuned to the energy. Usui attuned one person, Dr. Hyashi, who then trained Madam Takata. She brought Reiki to the U.S., training several “Reiki Masters” before her death in 1980. Today there are thousands of Reiki practitioners. I recieved my initial training from Linda Bertaut in 2002. I received my Master attunement in 2011 and am now ready to offer Reiki training to you. If you have enjoyed this introduction to energy work and are interested in the training, please sign up. 

1. Movement: Standing in Mountain Pose, guide students through a self acknowledgement of the chakras by placing their hands over these centers. We will also envision the color of the chakras and chant the seed sounds. 
2. Meditation with partner: Sitting comfortably, gazing into left eye, guide through a meditation which acknowledges our unity with one another by observing the ways we are all alike, baring witness to the likeness of our human experience. 
3. Group/ Partner Activity

1. Explore ways students can determine where they are out of balance by reviewing the description of the chakras. 

1. Journal to clear mental chatter
2. Identify unhealthy patterns by reviewing what was written. 
4. Journal to write changes you want to manifest.
5. With partners, develop ideas for individuals to help achieve balance based on what we learned in these classes. 
1. Refreshments
1. Veggie platter: radishes (1), carrots (2), yellow bell pepper (3), broccoli (4)
2. Fruit: blueberries (5), blackberries (6)
3. Chamomile and Lavender cookies
4. tranquilitea

Handout 1

Bertaut Reiki  

Handout 2

Anatomy of the Subtle Body 

References

Bertaut, Linda, Bertaut Reiki Reiki Level 1 and Energy Management, self published, 2004

www.bertautbeauty.com 

Stepanek, Suvani, Advanced Yoga, City College San Francisco, 2011

lecture notes and handouts

Rubin, Eric and Inman, Zoe, multidimensional Body Work, 2011

www.getdownwithyourbadassself.com

Usui, Grimm, The Original Reiki Handbook of Dr. Usui, Lotus Press

Shomsky, Exploring Chakras Awaken Your Untapped Energy, Shomsky

Swami Durgananda, The Heart of Meditation, Siddha Yoga Publications

Kaplan University Health and Fitness of an Elder Unit 8 Revised EF-310/HW499 Tonia Weakland-Wilhelm 10/19/2010 12/28/2011

This is a case study of Marsha, a 51 year old woman who is interested in weight loss and is in search of a program. She has inquired about purchasing a membership to my fitness facility.  It is my duty to evaluate her present health and fitness level to determine the appropriate steps to take, to help her reach her goal. 

The results of the initial par-q screening (physical activity readiness questionnaire)  revealed valuable information about her that can guide us to creating a program that is appropriate for her needs.(Howley, p.23-24) She is 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 m) tall. She weighs 240 pounds (109 kg).  Her blood pressure is 152/88 mmHg. Her lifestyle is sedentary, having never had a regular exercise routine. She sits at a desk job. She does not have any leisure activities. She has not had a physical exam from the doctor in three years. There is a family history of heart disease and diabetes.

Marsha’s BMI is calculated to be 40.4. This is considered to be extremely obese. (CDC, Assessing Your Weight, np) Her blood pressure is high. She is inactive, has a strong family history of diabetes and heart disease. She has not been to the doctor for an exam in three years. She needs to go to the doctor to get a complete physical and medical clearance before she can start a program. The exam will determine the safety of moderate to vigorous exercise as part of her weight loss program. Assessment of her cardiovascular health can be done using a treadmill or cycle ergometer. (Howley, p.78) Standardized tests for strength and flexibility need to be done as well. 

The nutritionists at our fitness center can evaluate Marsha’s diet and preferences. Her daily energy requirements are 2,480 calories per day. She should target to take in approximately  750 fewer calories than that in order to sustain healthy weight loss. The nutritionist can work with her regularly to create menu plans and strategies to help her make healthy food choices, get her essential nutrients and sustain a caloric intake of 1730 K-calories per day. (mytcm.com, np)

Marsha came to the fitness center of her own free will. This shows that she is mentally prepared to make a change. We need to talk with her to determine her interests and to help her set realistic goals. Her trainers will need to pay attention to her level of enthusiasm in order to ensure she is able to adhere to the activities recommended. We need to encourage her to increase lifestyle activity and create a structured workout program. If she is willing to come into the gym for one hour of structured exercise, three days per week and find ways to be more active in her daily activities, she can loose a couple of pounds per week. Walking with a partner would be a great thing for her to do every day. As she progresses, she could increase her frequency and duration of her structured workouts. (CDC, Physical Activity for Everyone, np)

It is important to keep Marsha motivated so that she will be successful. We will work with her to develop a program that she will enjoy. We will help her understand the risks of being overweight and to reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. We will implement a reward system for reaching short term goals. We can give her coupons to boutiques to go shopping for new clothes as she moves down in dress sizes. We could also offer her membership incentives for recruiting friends. 

Regular physical activity is key to achieving good health and a healthy weight. With a thorough initial consultation and medical examination, ongoing  support, and motivation, we will be able to help Marsha reach her goals. 

References

Howley, Edward & Franks, Don. (2007), Fitness Professional’s Handbook, Fifth Edition, Human Kinetics, Champaign IL

My TCM website, retrieved July 25, 2010, Copyright © 2010 - myTCM.com.au, myTCM.com.au, University of Sydney, Australia

Physical activity for a healthy weight, retrieved from CDC website

http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/physical_activity/index.html

This Christmas Day

On this Christmas Day, I gave my time at St. Anthony's of San Francisco. We served about 4,000 meals and gave hand knitted scarves and hats. Though I did not wake up in the morning with my children or open one gift that day, I really believe it was one of the best Christmases I have had, because I was more in tune with the true spirit of Christmas. From now on, I intend to make it a tradition to serve on holidays. Furthermore, I intend for my children to join in as well. In our consumer society, we place too much emphasis on materialism, especially with our children. Rather than asking kids what they got for Christmas, I will ask what they gave. 

Yoga Experience Fall 2011

Yogas citta vritti nirodaha

This semester I have made a commitment to myself, to deepen my practice, to take my spirituality and my career to the next level. The principles of Raja yoga have integrated into my awareness of my every day life. As I deepen my practice, my conscious awareness continues to expand. I have expanded my horizons in yoga by studying the Yoga Sutras in class, trying different styles of yoga and by being consistent with my practice.  

Lately, more than ever, I have been living my Raja Yoga. I keep in mind the eight principles of Ashtanga Yoga throughout my day, beginning with Yama, moral restraint in action, speech and thought. I practice Ahimsa by cultivating compassion for all beings and practice non-violence by refraining from use of force. Sometimes this is difficult. I do catch myself becoming forceful in some situations, such as with parenting, I find myself raising my voice or getting a little pushy when my kids are not behaving how I want them to. At times I loose my patients, but I am more aware of it today. When I catch myself loosing my patients, I take a deep breath and a step back. 

Satya is honesty with behavior, thought and intention. This too is an ongoing practice. I have taken big steps toward being honest with myself. Today, more than ever before in my life, I am willing to speak my truth and do what is right for me, rather than what I think I should do to please others. I think Asteya, non-stealing comes easily to me. I am not one to steal people’s time, energy, or belongings. Brahmacharya, the practice of celibacy is more of a challenge for me. I find that I tend to go for all or nothing. If someone is attracted to me and I am not attracted to them, then I simply turn them down. If I am attracted to someone, I may move quickly even if I know it would probably be in my best interest to slow down. There needs to be more than an initial attraction. I want there to be a real heart connection. Early this year, I hurt someone’s heart as they felt more strongly for me than I did for them. When it didn’t work out, it ruined the chance for a good friendship. To correct this behavior, I have recently made a vow to renounce loveless sex. If my heart is not in it, I won’t do it. This allows me to have more respect for myself and to not hurt or confuse anyone else. 

Aparigraha is the separation between wants and needs. More and more, I have been able to distinguish between my wants from my needs. There is not much I want for on the material plane. My budget is tight. I often only buy things for myself if I feel I need them. My material requirements are becoming more modest all the time. 

The Niyamas are discipline in actions, conduct and attitudes. I have been developing these. Saucha is purity or cleanliness of physical body, diet, thought and environment. My diet has improved a lot this year. I eat a lot more vegetables and fruits, while eating a lot less processed foods, enriched grains, sweets and fatty foods. I feel better and have more energy. My home and car have been more consistently clean in recent months than they have been in the past. I have noticed that keeping a cleaner environment helps me to keep a clear head. Santosha means to be satisfied and appreciate what we have and to keep a positive attitude toward what we do not have. I have come a long way with this concept as I have matured. I am content knowing that my worldly needs are met. If there is something I do not have, I distinguish whether it is a want or need. If it is a want, I do not pay much attention to it. If it is a need, I devise a plan to get the need met, while practicing patience and diligence toward reaching that goal. This is Tapas, a burning enthusiasm for practice and life’s work. Through discipline, self control and persistence I can eventually attain anything I am passionate about. This year I finally received my Reiki Master attunement which had been a goal of mine for several years. I have also been working towards my Bachelor’s degree and am now working on my final quarter. The attainment of that goal is just a couple of months away. Swadhaya is self study, self discovery, mindful self reflection. In conjunction with my Reiki training and my yoga practice, I took a course entitled Multi-dimensional bodywork, in which we journeyed through the chakras, identifying our old wounds, clearing the false ego and getting more in tune with our true selves. It was truly an amazing experience that transformed me in depth. Ishvarapranidhana is a knowing of a higher power. I have always believed in a God of some form. My Yoga practice definitely brings me closer to my higher consciousness and with the chakra work I have done, I feel a strong connection in my seventh chakra to spirit. 

My Asana practice has improved this semester. I have been much more consistent about showing up to my regular class as well as trying classes at new places. This semester I took a couple of asana classes at Integral Yoga Institute, the YMCA and at a Bikram studio in Santa Rosa. I enjoyed the variety of styles and theories for practice. Pranayama has become a habit. Not only do I intentionally sit and practice nadhi shodan (alternate nostril breathing) or kapalah bahti (breath of fire) at some point almost every day, I also invoke ujai breath or four part breathing throughout my day whenever I wish to become more grounded, centered and present. Practicing asana and pranayam have helped me to improve my focus, known as Dharana. Regular practice helps me to meet the many demands of my life. When I find myself stressed, tired or scattered, I practice asana, pranayam or meditation, then return to my tasks with a renewed ability to focus and stay present. Dhyana or meditation has become a daily ritual for me as well. As often as I can, I do sit quietly for anywhere between five and twenty minutes in meditation. I also call upon a meditative state throughout my day, focusing on staying present, grounded and connected to source. My yoga practice is the foundation of my spiritual life, complimenting my Reiki and bodywork practices which have ritualistically opened me up to source. I am now more aware of my seventh chakra than I ever was before. I have tasted Samadhi. I do not know if I will attain full enlightenment in this lifetime, but I am more confident and more in touch with my higher power than I ever have been. 

The entire practice of yoga boils down to this one point, sutra 1:2, to settle the mind into silence. All of the Yogic practices and the sutras lead back to this quieting of the mind, which enables us to become more in tune with our true nature, which is peace. Sutra 1:5 deals with the different types of activity of the mind. These are right knowledge, wrong knowledge, imagination, sleep, dream and memory. Each of these result from our experiences. If we are attached to our experiences, they continue to live inside of us and will haunt us like a ghost. Yogic practices can help us to detach from our experiences, so that they loose their power over us. In recent months I have done a lot of work with that. I have identified past experiences which had taken hold of my subconscious mind, taken action to release them and to reclaim my own power. The Yoga Sutras speak of detachment. This can be difficult to do. There is much I am attached to, but just acknowledging the attachment allows me to loosen my grip. Attachment is but one obstacle to enlightenment. Others are illness, fatigue, doubt, carelessness, laziness and delusion. The three thieves of the heart that tend to keep most of us from reaching our potential are self doubt, self hate and fear. Today I work diligently to face these and to overcome. There was a time when I did not even try many things I was interested in because I doubted myself. There still are many things I would like to try. One by one, I am facing my fears, overcoming my doubt and going for it. 

Yoga has helped my mind to become more clear and serene. The qualities of my heart are continuously being cultivated. Much of my life is now full of joy. I have compassion for those who suffer, but do not necessarily take their problems on as my own. I let my light shine, practicing loving kindness with passion. This makes me attractive as a friend, a teacher and a practitioner of healing arts. 

ALCOHOLISM A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a mental health disorder that is characterized by an uncontrollable compulsion to drink. A combination of social and biological factors may lead to alcoholism. One primary risk factor is a family history of the disease. This is due to both the influence of being exposed to and effected by alcoholic behavior and the possibility of genetic factors. People who suffer from alcoholism become physically dependent on the drug. Alcoholics build up a tolerance, needing more and more alcohol to get the desired effects. Without alcohol symptoms of withdrawal can present within a couple of hours. These symptoms can include irritability, nausea, tremors and anxiety.

 Excessive alcohol consumption interrupts key receptors in the brain that effect the ability to create memories. This can lead to alcohol induced amnesia commonly known as a blackout. Additionally this interruption effects cognitive abilities for days after the drinking has stopped, so if alcohol consumption persists, it takes a toll on the hypocampus, an important emotional center of the brain. Alcoholic depression may worsen with time as do poor choices that negatively effect the life of the alcoholic. Life becomes unmanageable, home and career being effected and physical health declining.

Help For Alcoholics

Alcoholics Anonymous is the original Twelve Step Program that provides a structured path toward recovery from alcoholism. It is the primary model upon which many alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs are based. It’s premise is spiritual growth and personal accountability. The program is fully self supporting and self sustaining, which are powerful reasons why it works for those who work it. AA meetings can be found in virtually every community in the United States and around the world. 

Residential Alcohol Rehabilitation centers are live in programs for individuals undergoing the earliest stages of alcohol detox and returning to sobriety. Licensed counselors and other professionals care for and guide addicts toward a healthier life, treating the addiction, the mental health afflictions and the possible physical ailments caused by alcohol dependency. 

Sober Living Environments are also known as half way houses. When people leave the strictly regimented alcohol rehab facility, they may not be ready to return to independent living. Sober houses provide an environment for addicts to live in providing structure, recovery planning and tools while allowing them to have more freedom to readjust to life in society. 

Support and Prevention for Families

43% of Americans have been exposed to alcoholism in their families. Although people can not stop their loved ones from drinking, help is available that can provide support and guidance for those effected by alcoholics. Al-Anon and Al-Ateen family groups are twelve step programs related to Alcoholics Anonymous. Al-Anon members are able to recognize codependent, enabling behavior patterns that may do more harm than good for themselves and the addict. Through peer support and literature provided by the program, families can learn healthier ways to deal with the problems that arise due to alcoholism. Members do not dispense advise or directions, rather they share their experience, strength and hope. Members come to understand problem drinking as a family illness that affects everyone. By listening to members speak at  meetings, one can hear how they came to understand their own role in this illness. The insights gained put them in a better position to play a positive role in the future. Research shows that when problem drinkers enter a recovery program, their chances for success are improved when they are supported by family members who are in a family recovery program. Al-Anon meetings can be found in communities nationwide and around the world.

Statistics

Alcohol is the number 1 drug problem in America. Americans spend more than $90 billion dollars on alcohol each year. An average American may drink 25 gallons of beer, 2 gallons of wine, and 1.5 gallons of distilled spirits each year. 15 million Americans are dependent on alcohol. 500,000 are between the age of 9 and 12. Alcohol related problems are costing the American economy at least $100 million in health care and lost of productivity every year. About 1 out of 4 Americans admitted to general hospitals have alcohol problems or are undiagnosed alcoholics being diagnosed for alcohol related consequences. Alcohol abuse is the third leading cause of death, causing 35 to 40 percent of motor vehicle fatalities, as well as chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, home injuries, drownings, fire fatalities, job injuries, and 3 to 5% of cancer deaths. to 40% of all industrial fatalities and 47% of work related injuries can be linked to alcohol consumption and alcoholism. A 2001 survey shows 25 million Americans reported driving under the influence of alcohol a number that grows each year. Among young adults age 18 to 25 years, almost 23% drove under the influence of alcohol. The latest death statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), show that 17,488 people where killed in alcohol related traffic accidents last year. This report represents nearly 800 more people where killed than the previous year.In 1996, local law enforcement agencies made an estimated 1,467,300 arrests nationwide for DUI offenses. Four of ten criminal offenders report alcohol as a factor in violence. Among domestic violence victims, three quarters of incidents were reported to have involved alcohol use by the offender. 

Resources and References

Al-Anon Family Groups, http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

Alcoholics Anonymous, http://www.aa.org/?Media=PlayFlash, retrieved July 2011

The Biology Behind Alcohol Induced Blackouts, Medline News Today,http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/printerfriendlynews.php?newsid=230582, 07 Jul 2011, retrieved August 2011

California Department of Motor Vehicles, http://dmv.ca.gov/about/profile/rd/duistats89_99.htm 

CDC Alcohol and Public Health,http://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/faqs.htm, retrieved July 2011 

DrugRehabs.org, http://www.drug-rehabs.org/alcohol-statistics.php

Katcher et all, Estimating alcohol-related premature mortality in san francisco: use of population-attributable fractions from the global burden of disease study,http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/10/682, retrieved July 2011

Medline News Today, Researchers Find Key Genetic Trigger of Depression,http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/printerfriendlynews.php?newsid=204903 , retrieved August 2011

National Institutes of Health, NIH News, Wednesday, January 19, 2011 http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/NewsEvents/NewsReleases/Pages/Genevariantspredicttreatmentsuccessforalcoholismmedication.aspx, retrieved August 2011

Schneider, Mary-Jane, Introduction to Public Health, Jones and Bartlett

Alcoholism: Chemistry and Public Health

An alcoholic is someone who’s life has become unmanageable due to their physical and psychological dependence upon alcohol. Almost everyone in society knows someone who is effected by this all to common illness. The causes of chemical dependency are many and not fully understood. It seems that there is no singular cause; rather a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors contribute to one’s susceptibility to the disease. Statistics demonstrate the effects alcoholism has on economic burden and health disparities. Interventions can be taken at all levels ranging from individuals and communities to state and federal government in order to prevent or treat alcohol addiction. Research and education are key to understanding, preventing and treating this common and complex disease. The disease of alcoholism is an issue that seriously undermines the health and wellness of individuals, families, and communities thus vigorous action must be taken toward prevention and treatment of this disease.

The disease of alcoholism actually has little to do with alcohol. Drinking is but a symptom of a psychological problem. Mental disorders such as alcoholism occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. About one in four adults in the United States suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder. Depression is the most common cause of disability for the age 15-44 demographic.(CDC, Genomics and Health) Other common mental illnesses include anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Many alcoholics suffer from one or more mental disorders in addition to addiction. This is called dual diagnosis. The specific causes of most mental disorders, including addiction are not completely known or understood. It seems that a combination of biological, genetic, psychological, social and cultural factors are involved. Having a family history of addiction and mental disorders increases the risk. 

Millions of people are dependent upon alcohol. Alcoholics may drink to socialize, relieve stress, relax or sleep. They become dependent upon alcohol and it’s effects, developing an uncontrollable compulsion to drink. In time, an alcoholic develops a tolerance to alcohol’s effects; they need to drink more to feel the high. Psychologically, the alcoholic becomes unstable, exhibiting unexplained mood swings, anxiety, severe depression, angry outbursts, acts of violence, or suicidal tendencies.  “If they do not have alcohol, they may begin to experience withdrawal symptoms in as little as two hours of not having a drink. These symptoms can include irritability, nausea, tremors and anxiety.” (rehab-international.org) 

“A person who drinks too much alcohol may be able to perform complicated tasks, such as dancing, carrying on a conversation or even driving a car, but later have no memory of those escapades. These periods of amnesia commonly known as "blackouts," can last from a few minutes to several hours.” A study conducted at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis identified the brain cells involved in blackouts and the molecular mechanism that appears to underlie them. The report which appeared in the July 6, 2011, Journal of Neuroscience found that large amounts of alcohol does not kill brain cells, but interferes with key receptors that effect memory.

The receptors product steroid hormones that inhibit long-term potentiation “LTP”. This process strengthens the connections between neurons and is crucial to learning and memory. Some receptors become inhibited but later others activate, initiating a cascade of interference with synaptic plasticity in the brain's hippocampus, which is important in cognitive functioning.(Medline news, The Biology Behind Alcohol-Induced Blackouts)

Alcoholism is a danger to public health because people who are addicted to alcohol never know when to stop and they have no regard for any of the consequences of their excessive drinking. Irresponsible behavior by the alcoholic effects not only the health of the individual, but families, businesses and the community as well. Alcohol is the third leading cause of death in the nation, causing 35 to 40 percent of motor vehicle fatalities, as well as chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, home injuries, drownings, fire fatalities, job injuries, and 3 to 5 percent of cancer deaths. (Schneider, 220). Alcoholism can also result in cardiovascular problems, liver disease, pancreatitis, esophageal and oropharyngeal cancers. “People who consume excessive amounts of alcohol will also have an increased risk of developing arthritis, cancer, heart disease, hyper- and hypoglycemia, kidney disease, obesity, nervous disorders, psychological disturbances and malnutrition.” (Rehab-international.) A study conducted in San Francisco California between 2004 and 2007 found that 10% of premature deaths in the city were somehow related to alcohol. (Katcher et all)

Risky behaviors such as drunk driving endangers the lives of others, not just the alcoholic. Alcoholics who engage in risky behavior often wind up with legal problems. Statistically, there was an alcohol related auto accident resulting in fatality every 38 minutes in the U.S. (SAMHSA) In the state of California there were 203,866 DUI arrests in 2007. (DMV.gov) The number of drunk driving arrests grows yearly, unfortunately so does the number of drunk driving fatalities. 

Alcoholism is the number one drug problem in America. It is estimated that 43% of Americans are exposed to alcoholism in their families. (drugrehabs.org) Families of alcoholics suffer emotional distress, financial consequences, and sometimes violence in the home. Unborn children of alcoholic mothers suffer serious medical consequences. Fetal alcohol syndrome is characterized by physical deformation, emotional and mental disturbances and sometimes mental retardation. Alcoholism tares families apart when left untreated. There is help available for alcoholics and for their families.  

Alcoholics only go for help when they are ready. If they get into trouble, they may be forced into a treatment program, but in order to truly recover they have to want it for themselves. Twelve step programs are the primary model for alcohol rehabilitation, treatment, and help for their families. Alcoholism is a problem even when the alcoholic remains sober. They cannot function well without it. Their life can become a bigger mess when they are sober without some sort of program or active lifestyle management for the recovering alcoholic. They must take specific action to work on their problem. (rehab-international.org) 

Alcoholism requires rehabilitative treatment. The withdrawal symptoms of alcohol detox are very intense and can be fatal without medical intervention. In 2006 thirteen percent of drug-related emergency department visits by minors were a result of alcohol, either on its own or after being combined with other substances. In the same year, two million five hundred thousand people were treated for alcoholism at rehabilitation centers. These programs are usually live in programs that offer a strict structured environment that combines twelve step philosophy, professional counseling, behavioral modification and medical care as needed. Rehabs are intended to pull the alcoholic out of crisis. Sober living environments also known as half way houses are a good option for the recovering alcoholic who is fresh out of rehab and still needs the structure of the drug free environment. 

Prescription medications or holistic therapies are sometimes prescribed to individuals who are detoxing or recovering from alcohol addiction. The drug Ondanestron is currently used to help control nausia and vomiting for chemotherapy patients. An experimental study at the University of Virginia found that this drug has helped people with drinking problems to reduce the amount of alcohol they drink. It works by effecting serotonin receptors. Genetic variants of serotonin receptors have been found in people with severe drinking problems. (NIH News) Holistic therapies such as acupuncture and Yoga have also been found to be effective in helping alcoholics to find some relief in the form of energetic healing and spiritual guidance. After all,  disease starts on an energetic level.

For lifestyle management the twelve step program Alcoholics Anonymous is by far the most popular organization. Twelve step groups put a strong emphasis on spirituality and personal accountability. Established in the 1950’s by Bill W. AA has grown to become a world wide network.  AA meetings can be found in every community in the U.S. and in many other countries. Many other twelve step programs have grown out of the AA model. Al-Anon is also a twelve step program designed to support the families of alcoholics. It is believed that the families of alcoholics also suffer from the same disease, even if they do not drink, because they suffer from the consequences of alcoholic behavior, emotional distress, abuse, and develop unhealthy behaviors for survival. All twelve step programs use the same twelve steps and the Al-Anon member is encouraged to work the steps just the same as the alcoholic. (aa.org)

Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon

1. We admitted that we were powerless over alcohol- that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. 
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. 
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. 
9. Made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except to injure them or others. 
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. 
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. 

(aa.org)

The old adage goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  Public service announcements encouraging responsible behavior with alcohol are mostly aimed at preventing drunk driving and underage drinking. Laws against providing minors with alcohol or driving while intoxicated are strict, but their effectiveness is limited. The alcohol industry spends $2 billion on advertising each year and Americans spend $90 billion on alcoholic beverages. (DrugRehabs.org) Teenagers are susceptible to peer pressure and media influence. Parental involvement and modeling are probably the best defense against teen alcohol abuse. It is well known that alcoholism runs in families. If parents are alcoholics, the children are more likely to develop drinking problems themselves. The opposite may also be true. If children are brought up by emotional healthy adults who model responsible behavior and communicate openly with  them, then the kids are less likely to give into media influence and peer pressure. 

The disease of alcoholism is complex in cause and cure. The factors that contribute to alcohol addiction are a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, familial and social influences. This is not a disease anyone consciously chooses. Therefore it is important to have compassion for those effected by alcoholism and to understand that it is an illness that can be treated. Public Health must address prevention of alcohol abuse, protecting the community from the dangers of alcoholic behavior and treating those afflicted with the disease. 

References

Alcoholics Anonymous, http://www.aa.org/?Media=PlayFlash, retrieved July 2011

The Biology Behind Alcohol Induced Blackouts, Medline News Today,http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/printerfriendlynews.php?newsid=230582, 07 Jul 2011, retrieved August 2011

California Department of Motor Vehicles, http://dmv.ca.gov/about/profile/rd/duistats89_99.htm 

CDC, Public Health Genomics, Mental Health Awareness,http://www.cdc.gov/genomics/resources/diseases/mental.htm, retrieved August 2011

DrugRehabs.org, http://www.drug-rehabs.org/alcohol-statistics.php

Katcher et all, Estimating alcohol-related premature mortality in san francisco: use of population-attributable fractions from the global burden of disease study,http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/10/682, retrieved July 2011 

Medline News Today, Researchers Find Key Genetic Trigger of Depression,http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/printerfriendlynews.php?newsid=204903 , retrieved August 2011

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism,http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/Pages/default.aspx, retrieved July 2011 

National Institutes of Health, NIH News, Wednesday, January 19, 2011 http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/NewsEvents/NewsReleases/Pages/Genevariantspredicttreatmentsuccessforalcoholismmedication.aspx, retrieved August 2011

Schneider, Mary-Jane, Introduction to Public Health, Jones and Bartlett

What If Everyone Saw This Facebook Status?

What If Everyone Saw This Facebook Status?