Abstract
There are many different components of wellness that can be researched and analyzed to investigate the influence of wellness on the use of alcohol. These components include physical fitness, mental/emotional wellness, social well-being, and environmental wellness. Each of these components has different influences on the use of alcohol and can be used to help people struggling with alcohol use disorders. Physical wellness is vital for people struggling with alcohol use disorders because it can help them improve their overall health (Wray et al., 2014). Physical activities associated with physical wellness, such as exercise and yoga, can help reduce stress levels and improve overall physical health. Mental/emotional wellness is also vital for people struggling with alcohol use disorders because it can help them manage their emotions better. Stress reduction and mental health can be achieved by engaging in mental/emotional wellness activities like mindfulness and meditation.
People who struggle with alcohol use disorders need to be socially healthy because it can help them form wholesome relationships. Activities associated with social well-being, such as volunteering, networking, and participating in social events, can help people build positive relationships and connections (Wray et al., 2014). Environmental wellness is also vital for people struggling with alcohol use disorders because it can help them reduce their environmental impact. Conservationism and other environmental well-being practices can assist people in lessening their environmental impact and raising the standard of living for themselves and others.
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The issue of Concern
Alcohol use among youths in the United States is a significant issue that must be addressed. The main reason is that alcohol significantly impacts young people's overall health and well-being. One way alcohol can harm a person's health is by causing addiction and other forms of mental illness. Alcohol harms physical health, causing liver damage, heart problems, and strokes. Additionally, alcohol use among youths can lead to social problems such as violence and sexual assault (Moss et al., 2014). Given the negative impacts of alcohol use on youths, it is crucial to understand why they are drawn to drinking in the first place. One reason is that alcohol can make people feel relaxed and happy, making it easy for youths to become dependent on it, and it can be difficult for them to stop using alcohol once they start.
Another reason youths may drink is that alcohol is socialized as a way to have fun. For example, many adolescents believe drinking alcohol will make them more popular with their peers. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Research has shown that people who regularly drink are more likely to be involved in violence and other criminal activity (Moss et al., 2014). Finally, alcohol can be a way for youths to escape from difficult situations. For example, drinking can temporarily relieve a youth's feeling overwhelmed or stressed. However, this relief may not last, and the drinker may feel even more stressed. In this paper, we are to discuss a wellness program on the use of alcohol among youths aged 18-35 years in the USA using a humanities perspective because it provides a more nuanced understanding of the issues surrounding alcohol use among youths.
Research on the population of the study
In the United States, alcohol is widely consumed by people of all ages. However, its use is widespread among young adults. According to a national survey conducted in 2019, nearly 60 percent of 18- to 35-year-olds report drinking alcohol at least once in the past month (Sugarman & Greenfield, 2021). This rate is nearly double that of 36- to 49-year-olds who report drinking alcohol (34 percent). The use of alcohol has increased significantly among Americans over the past few decades. In 1998, only about a third of adults aged 18 to 34 reported drinking alcohol at least once in the past month (Sugarman & Greenfield, 2021). However, by 2019, that share had increased to nearly 60 percent. The increase in alcohol use among young adults has been particularly pronounced among men (Sugarman & Greenfield, 2021). In 1998, only about a quarter of men aged 18 to 34 reported drinking alcohol at least once in the past month. However, by 2019, that share had increased to nearly half. The use of alcohol is also common among wealthy people or those with higher levels of education. In 2018, about two-thirds of adults with college degrees reported drinking alcohol at least once in the past month, compared to only about a third of adults who did not have college degrees (Sugarman & Greenfield, 2021).
Several factors may contribute to the increased use of alcohol among young adults. For example, many young adults may be more comfortable drinking alcohol than in previous generations. Additionally, some young adults may believe that alcohol is not a problem or that it is not harmful. The consequences of drinking alcohol can be severe, especially for young adults. Alcohol can increase the risk of experiencing problems such as accidents, violence, and sexual assault (Sugarman & Greenfield, 2021). Overall, the use of alcohol is increasing among Americans across all age groups. However, the trend is particularly pronounced among young adults, suggesting a need to continue public awareness campaigns about the dangers of drinking alcohol and develop interventions to help young adults resist the urge to drink.
The general education interdisciplinary lens applied.
Humans have been consuming alcohol for thousands of years, one of the world's most widely used psychoactive substances. Despite its widespread use, alcohol has several negative consequences, including addiction, violence, and death. The consumption of alcohol is a social phenomenon shaped by cultural, economic, and political factors. The study of alcohol from a humanities perspective can provide a nuanced understanding of its effects on individuals and societies.
The humanities offer an interdisciplinary lens that can help to analyze the use of alcohol among youths. This lens encompasses history, literature, sociology, and psychology. These fields offer a variety of perspectives on human behavior that experts can use to understand better how alcohol affects individuals. For example, historians can examine how alcohol has been used throughout history to socialize and connect with others. Literature scholars can explore how alcohol is a plot device to tell stories. Sociologists can look at how social norms around drinking affect youths' behavior. Moreover, psychologists can study the cognitive and emotional effects of alcohol use on individuals.
By using a humanities perspective, analysts can create more nuanced understandings of the issues surrounding alcohol use among youths. This type of analysis can help to identify potential solutions to the problems associated with alcohol use. By understanding how alcohol is used and abused in society, policymakers can develop more effective policies that address this issue. In addition, by studying alcoholism from a humanities perspective, clinicians can better understand the underlying causes of addiction and provide treatment tailored to their patients' individualized needs. The study of alcohol from a humanities perspective has benefits both within academia and beyond. Within academia, it offers scholars a broader perspective on the issues surrounding alcohol use. This type of analysis can help to identify potential solutions to the problems associated with alcohol use. Beyond academia, studying alcohol from a humanities perspective has benefits in terms of public awareness and understanding.
Societal Impacts
The way society impacts and shapes the use of alcohol among youths in the US can be seen in many different ways. One way is through the media. Much research has been conducted on alcohol use and its effects on youths in the United States. Much of this research has focused on how different media types – such as movies, television shows, and music videos – impact youths' alcohol use (Barry et al., 2015). The media often portrays alcohol positively, leading youths to believe that alcohol is okay to use, which can harm their health and overall well-being. Another way society impacts and shapes the use of alcohol among youths in the US is through laws. For example, in some states, it is illegal for people under 21 years old to purchase alcohol which can have a significant impact on how youths use alcohol.
In addition, laws can also dictate how much alcohol is acceptable to drink. For example, it is illegal in many states to drink more than one alcoholic beverage per hour, which can significantly impact how youths use alcohol and their overall health. Finally, society impacts and shapes the use of alcohol among youths in the US through social norms. For example, many people believe it is okay to drink alcohol in moderation leading to youths believing it is okay to use alcohol (Barry et al., 2015). Social norms can also dictate how people behave when drinking alcohol. For example, many believe it is acceptable to act rowdy while intoxicated, which can negatively impact youths' physical and mental health. Overall, society has a significant impact on the way youths use alcohol in the US. Media, laws, social norms, and individual behavior impact how youths use alcohol and their overall health.
Impact on Institutions
The use of alcohol among youths in the USA has had a profound impact on various institutions within the country. The most visible manifestation of this impact has been in crime, health, and education. The impact of alcohol use on education has been significant. Research shows that alcohol use is a major factor contributing to academic problems among youths. For example, a study of high school students in the United States found that those who used alcohol were more likely to get lower grades and be less likely to graduate. In addition, research has shown that alcohol use is a significant factor leading to dropout from college.
A study by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that in 2011, one-in-four students aged 18 to 24 had used alcohol at some point, a significantly higher percentage than any other age group (VanKim et al., 2010). Moreover, this percentage has remained relatively consistent over the past several decades. The study found that the proportion of 18 to 24-year-olds who had used alcohol at some point in their lives rose from 26% to 34% between 1979 and 2011. This increase in alcohol use among young adults has significantly impacted the education system. For example, alcohol use has been linked with decreased grades and attendance. In addition, it has been linked with increased violence and sexual assault rates among college and university students.
The health consequences of alcohol use among youths are significant. Alcohol use has been linked with several health problems, including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and stroke (VanKim et al., 2010). For example, research shows that people who drink heavily during adolescence are three times more likely to develop chronic liver disease in adulthood (VanKim et al., 2010). In addition, alcohol use has been linked with several serious mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. Alcohol use among youths has been linked with several criminal activities, such as assault, theft, and vandalism.
Research indicates that alcohol use significantly contributes to juvenile delinquency (VanKim et al., 2010). For example, a study conducted in California found that for every unit increase in the level of drinking by adolescents, there was an increase of 0.7% in the number of aggravated assaults committed by those adolescents (VanKim et al., 2010). In addition, research has consistently shown that alcohol use is a significant factor leading to criminal behavior later in life.
Social Practices
In recent years, wellness has become a popular topic in popular culture due to the rise in chronic health conditions and the increased focus on prevention and health promotion. Wellness has become essential to overall health, and many people look for ways to improve their health (Barry et al., 2015). Several social practices have been shaped by issues and events in wellness in modern culture. These practices include diet, exercise, mental well-being, stress management, and social networking (Barry et al., 2015). One of the most critical trends in wellness is the rise in chronic health conditions. In recent years, there has been an increase in chronic health conditions, such as obesity and diabetes. Chronic health conditions are diseases that last for an extended period. They can be challenging to treat and lead to severe complications if not treated properly, which has led to an increased focus on prevention and health promotion.
Prevention refers to taking steps to avoid getting sick in the first place. Health promotion focuses on helping people improve their health by promoting healthy behaviors and lifestyles. One of the ways that wellness has been promoted in recent years is through social networking. Social networking websites, such as Facebook and Instagram, are popular tools for sharing information about personal well-being, diet, exercise, mental well-being, and stress management(Barry et al., 2015). Social networking can also connect with others who share similar interests in wellness which can help people to learn about new ways to improve their health and connect with others who can support them in achieving their goals.
Change Needed on the topic.
The use of alcohol has been identified as a significant problem among employees. Alcohol use can lead to absenteeism, job performance problems, and accidents. It can also lead to health problems and add to the cost of health insurance. A well-designed wellness program can help employees reduce alcohol use and improve their health. One way is to provide education about the risks of alcohol use and the benefits of reducing consumption (Fleming, 2020). Employees can be given information about how much alcohol is safe to consume, what to do if they drink too much, and how to deal with alcohol abuse (Fleming, 2020). It can help them make informed decisions about how much alcohol to drink and how to best deal with problems that may arise from drinking. Providing education about the risks of alcohol use can also help employees understand their drinking habits and why it is essential to stop drinking.
Another way to reduce alcohol use among employees is to support those struggling with alcohol abuse. Supportive interventions include counseling, group therapy, and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings (Fleming, 2020). These interventions can help employees address the underlying causes of their drinking problems and find ways to live healthier, more productive lives (Fleming, 2020). Providing support for those struggling with alcohol abuse can reduce alcohol use among employees. It can help them address the underlying causes of their drinking problems and find ways to live healthier, more productive lives. These interventions can help employees feel supported and connected in their recovery, which can help them lead healthier lives and reduce the risk of alcohol abuse in the future. Therefore, regarding wellness programs, the risk of alcohol consumption among employees would have been a suitable topic to discuss.
Obstacles
There are many obstacles to addressing the use of alcohol among youths in the United States. The lack of research on the issue of alcohol use among youths is a major obstacle to addressing the use of alcohol among youths. There is limited data on the prevalence of alcohol use among youths, and the research is outdated. Additionally, experts can overcome a cultural taboo against discussing alcohol use among youth by creating public awareness of the dangers of alcohol use and developing interventions targeted at young people (Enders, 2013). Another obstacle to addressing the use of alcohol among youths is the lack of access to safe drinking environments. Many young people cannot access safe drinking environments, such as bars and nightclubs, because they live in areas with high levels of alcohol consumption (Enders, 2013). Another obstacle to addressing the use of alcohol among youths is the lack of resources. Many communities do not have the resources to address youth drinking issues. To overcome this obstacle, it will be necessary for government officials and non-profit organizations to invest in programs that target youth drinking.
Topics of Impact
There are several biases, beliefs, assumptions, or values that impact the use of alcohol among youths in the US. One of the most significant is the belief that alcohol is necessary for socialization and pleasure, especially for young adults who are just starting to explore their social lives and want to make new friends. Additionally, many people in the US believe that drinking alcohol is a way to cope with stress or feel happier (Stanovich et al., 2013). However, research has shown that excessive drinking can lead to several negative consequences, including problems with interpersonal relationships, health problems, and legal issues. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of these biases to make informed decisions about alcohol use.
Another significant bias is the assumption that all people who drink alcohol are risky drinkers. This stereotype can lead some people to believe that all young adults who drink alcohol are at risk for harm. However, this is not always the case. Research has shown that some young adults who drink alcohol are low-risk drinkers. These young adults may occasionally consume small amounts of alcohol and may not experience any negative consequences from their drinking habits (Stanovich et al., 2013). Finally, there is the value of abstinence. Many US people believe it is better to abstain from alcohol altogether than to drink in moderation. However, research has shown that moderate drinking can be beneficial for some people. For example, moderate drinkers have lower cardiovascular disease and cancer rates than those who abstain from alcohol. Therefore, it is essential to consider all the pros and cons of alcohol use before deciding whether or not to drink.
Benefits and Challenges in Wellness
The term wellness has been used in different ways in recent years. In the past, people only used wellness in physical health. Today, the term is more often used in the context of mental and emotional health. However, the benefits of wellness programs are not just limited to people's physical health. There are many different types of wellness programs, but some expected benefits include; improved mental and emotional health (Fleming, 2020). A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology found that participants in mindfulness-based stress reduction programs had lower levels of anxiety and depression than participants in a control group. Mindfulness is a type of meditation that has been shown to improve mental health. The second is increased physical health. According to a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, people who participated in a mindfulness-based weight loss program lost more weight and improved their blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin levels more than people who participated in a traditional weight loss program (Fleming, 2020). Mindfulness can help you to focus on your breathing and allow you to control your thoughts, which can lead to weight loss.
The reduced stress and anxiety that comes with improved wellness also increase productivity. An investigation published in The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that participants in a program for stress reduction based on mindfulness were more productive than non-participants. Mindfulness can help you to focus on the present moment and let go of distractions, leading to increased productivity. However, wellness programs can also be challenging to implement and manage. They often require employees to change their lifestyles, which can be difficult if they are not accustomed to making such sacrifices.
Additionally, wellness programs can be expensive to set up and maintain, and some employees may not appreciate being pressured to participate. Overall, wellness programs are a powerful tool for businesses to improve employee productivity and health. However, practitioners must manage wellness programs carefully to maximize their benefits while minimizing the associated challenges.
Strategies for change and increased wellness
There are many ways that healthcare practitioners can use wellness programs to improve their health and well-being. Some possible goals that healthcare practitioners might set for themselves related to wellness programs include:
- Improving overall physical health by decreasing the risk of developing chronic conditions, such as obesity or heart disease, and improving overall fitness levels.
- Decreasing stress levels and an increasing sense of well-being by engaging in enjoyable activities and promoting relaxation and restfulness, such as yoga or meditation.
- Improving cognitive function and preventing diseases such as Alzheimer's by promoting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and adequate sleep.
- Supporting the development of self-care skills by providing education on nutrition, stress management, and physical activity.
- Enhancing communication and collaboration among healthcare practitioners by promoting a healthy work environment free from tension and distractions.
Healthcare practitioners need to have goals related to wellness to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent chronic conditions. However, it is also vital for healthcare practitioners to be aware of the potential risks associated with engaging in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking or overeating. If healthcare practitioners struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle, they should talk to their doctor about possible options for managing their health condition (Cahalin et al., 2015). In addition, healthcare practitioners can benefit from regular wellness education to improve their knowledge and understanding of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Individual Framework of Perception
I think using various wellness dimensions altered my framework of perception as a healthcare practitioner. It made me more aware of the importance of caring for myself and my overall well-being. It also helped me understand how my health and well-being are connected to the health of others around me. It also broadened my perspective on health and disease, making me more likely to seek information about both topics. Overall, I found using wellness dimensions to be a valuable educational tool.
Biases and how they have shaped my viewpoint
I have a few biases as a healthcare practitioner regarding wellness programs. Some people are not motivated to change their lifestyle and improve their health, even when they know the health benefits. I also think people can be misled by promises of short-term weight loss or other quick fixes. I believe that wellness programs can offer many benefits to people's health, but they need to be well-supervised and tailored to the individual. People should also be encouraged to make gradual lifestyle changes rather than expecting quick results. These days, there are many different types of wellness programs available, so it is essential to find one that is appealing and fits with the individual's goals and lifestyle.
When I think about my personal biases, I realize that I might be biased against programs that promise quick weight loss or other short-term benefits. I also might be less likely to recommend a wellness program to someone if I think they will not be able to follow it properly. I believe people should take the time needed to improve their health and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Wellness programs can help support this effort, but people need to be willing and able to participate as they are designed to promote overall health and well-being.
Field of Study/Profession
There are many reasons why studying wellness can help a business manager in a vehicle dealership. Wellness can help managers identify health risks among employees and customers and implement policies and procedures to mitigate these risks. Additionally, a well-rounded wellness program can help managers improve employee productivity and morale by reducing stress levels. Finally, a healthy workforce can lead to increased sales and profits for businesses in the automotive industry. One example of how a wellness program could help reduce employee stress is by providing employees with access to massage therapy and yoga classes. These programs can help reduce tension and stress in the workplace, which can lead to better performance.
Additionally, providing employees access to healthy snacks and drinks can help them stay energized throughout the day, improving employee morale and making them more productive. Overall, in vehicle dealerships, studying wellness can help managers reduce employee stress levels, improve productivity, and increase customer satisfaction.
Different General Ed Lens
The analysis would have been different if I had used social sciences instead of humanities to analyze the use of alcohol among youths in the US because the social sciences focus on behavior, whereas the humanities focus on culture. Social scientists would have been more likely to focus on the behavior of young people concerning alcohol use. In contrast, humanities scholars would have looked at the historical and cultural factors contributing to alcohol consumption. Additionally, the social sciences would have analyzed data from a broader range of sources, whereas humanities scholars would only be able to access scholarly papers. Finally, the social sciences would have been better equipped to analyze complex issues such as alcohol use among youths. In contrast, humanities scholars would have been better suited to analyze more straightforward issues. The analysis would have been different because social sciences are better equipped to analyze complex phenomena.
Interactions with Others
Analyzing wellness can help interactions with people with different viewpoints, cultures, or perspectives. For example, understanding the concept of wellness can help individuals to be more understanding and supportive of others. Additionally, wellness can help to create a positive environment where everyone can feel comfortable and supported, which is crucial because it can help to improve communication and teamwork. Additionally, analyzing wellness can help individuals be more aware of their health and how it affects their interactions with others. Doing this may make better decisions and be more understanding of others. Overall, analyzing wellness can help to create a more positive and inclusive environment.
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