Harmful effects of drinking and the use and perceived effectiveness of treatment.

Abstract

The results confirm the contention that those who suffer harm from drinking are often difficult to involve in treatment. They also show, however, that the greater the number of harmful effects experienced, the more likely it is that a person will obtain treatment, suggesting that those most harmed are easiest to involve in treatment. The findings also emphasize that self-help groups are the overwhelmingly preferred mechanism for those who do obtain treatment, perhaps because of their greater accessibility and flexibility. Also, although the least reported harmful effect was on work, studies and employment, persons suffering this type of harm were the most likely to obtain treatment, suggesting that others affected by the harmed person may play a significant role in influencing him or her to obtain treatment.