Understanding the Inner Struggle: Alcohol Dependence and Self-Stigma in Turkey

Turkey has a complex relationship with alcohol. Many people grapple with alcohol dependence there. A recent effort looked into how these individuals view themselves and how society sees them. This is important because it helps understand the challenges they face. The study involved 37 people receiving treatment for alcohol dependence. It took place in a specialized addiction treatment center. The goal was to understand their self-perception and the societal views they encounter. The data was collected over several months in 2020. Two main themes emerged from the study. The first was how alcohol-dependent individuals see themselves. The second was how they believe society views them. These themes were broken down into seven smaller topics. This breakdown helped to paint a clearer picture of their experiences. One of the key findings was the impact of culture and religion on self-stigma. Many participants felt shame and self-loathing. They often despised themselves and others who consumed alcohol. This self-stigma is a significant barrier to recovery. It can make it harder for individuals to seek help and support. The study also highlighted the importance of addressing social stigma. Society's views can reinforce negative self-perceptions. This makes it even harder for individuals to overcome their dependence. Education and awareness campaigns could help combat this stigma. They could also provide training on alcohol dependence and stigma prevention. In Turkey, alcohol consumption is often frowned upon. This is due to cultural and religious beliefs. These beliefs can contribute to the self-stigma experienced by alcohol-dependent individuals. Understanding these cultural factors is crucial. It can help in developing effective strategies to support those struggling with alcohol dependence. The findings suggest that a multi-faceted approach is needed. This includes addressing both self-stigma and social stigma. By doing so, it is possible to create a more supportive environment. This can help individuals on their journey to recovery.