Role of coping behavior and socio-demographic variables in alcohol relapse

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Although short term treatments for alcoholism is quite effective but one of the most distressing problems in alcoholism treatment is the relatively high rates of relapse to alcohol use following periods of abstinence. Preventing Relapse is a formidable challenge in the treatment of drug addiction. Several authors in western countries have described relapse as complex, dynamic and unpredictable phenomena. Therefore in this study we attempt to examine the role or association between different socio-demographic variables, coping strategies and relapse among alcoholic patients. Aim: To study role of coping behavior and socio-demographic variables in alcohol relapse. Materials and methods: It was an observational study. A total of 100 willing patients of alcohol dependence with relapse were enrolled for the study. For the purpose of study an episode of relapse was defined as per ICD-10, relapse in substance dependency is defined as re-emergence of substance dependence after at least 4 weeks of abstinent period. All participants fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria and given written informed consent were analyzed through a structured interview using CBI. Results: A significant association of many socio-demographic and psychosocial variables with relapse was found. Variables like male gender, nuclear family, early age of onset of drinking, positive family history, number of past relapses etc. were found significant in determining relapse. A strong association of seldom use of coping strategies in predicting relapse was found. The average mean score in CBI was found to be 1.04 with SD of 0.25. Conclusion: This study may conclude that there is significant association of demographic and psychosocial factors with relapse in alcohol dependence. There is significant role of coping behavior in determining or predicting relapse.