Alcohol Use Disorder is not merely a physical affliction; it casts a shadow over mental well-being, weaving a complex web of challenges that often go unnoticed. While the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption on the body are widely acknowledged along with its therapeutic interventions, its profound impact on mental health remains a topic usually shrouded in silence. As we delve deeper into this intersection, it becomes increasingly evident that addressing alcohol abuse goes hand in hand with safeguarding mental well-being.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THIS ARTICLE IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION AND AWARENESS PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR IN-DEPTH DIAGNOSIS PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST MENTAL HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL.

According to the DSM, Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is characterised by problematic alcohol consumption leading to significant impairment or distress, with symptoms appearing within 12 months. These include consuming alcohol in more substantial amounts than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, spending excessive time obtaining or recovering from its effects, craving alcohol, neglecting responsibilities due to alcohol use, experiencing social or interpersonal problems, sacrificing important activities, engaging in hazardous situations, and continuing use despite knowing its harmful effects. AUD can also involve tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. Remission stages include early (no symptoms for 3-12 months) and sustained (no symptoms for over 12 months)

At its essence, alcohol use disorder is a coping mechanism for many individuals grappling with underlying mental health issues. It serves as a temporary relief from the relentless feelings and situations of anxiety, depression, trauma and other various psychological distress. However, this relief comes at a heavy price, as alcohol can increase existing mental health conditions and give rise to new ones as well.

The most insidious aspect of alcohol use disorder is its ability to hide existing mental health struggles, perpetuating a vicious cycle of self-medication and deterioration. What begins as a way of coping and numbing emotional pain swiftly spirals into a full-blown dependency, further amplifying feelings of despair and hopelessness.

Additionally, the societal stigma surrounding both alcohol use disorder and mental health creates barriers to seeking help. Many suffer in silence, fearing judgement and social ostracisation, while the dual stigma compels them to hide their struggle even further from their loved ones. This isolation only worsens and deepens the wounds of mental anguish, reinforcing the belief that recovery is an unattainable dream.

What Can We Do

The journey towards healing begins with acknowledging the intertwined nature of alcohol use disorder and mental health. By removing the barriers of stigma and shame, individuals can reclaim their stories and embark on a path of recovery. This process entails not only addressing the physical aspects of alcohol use disorder but also delving into the underlying emotional turmoil driving its consumption.

A lot of integrated therapeutic approaches simultaneously target alcohol use disorders and mental health disorders, which is very important in fostering lasting recovery. Therapeutic interventions provide invaluable tools for coping with cravings, managing triggers and navigating the complexities of emotional distress. Additionally, peer support groups offer companionship and understanding, reinforcing that nobody is alone in their struggles.

Preventive measures also play an essential role in mitigating the risk of alcohol use disorder and its detrimental effects on mental health and due to mental health. Psychoeducation initiatives to dispel myths and misconceptions are indispensable in empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Early intervention programs targeted at identifying and addressing mental health concerns before they escalate can significantly reduce the likelihood of self-medication through alcohol.

What is equally important is the cultivation of a supportive community that fosters open conversations and destigmatising discussions surrounding alcohol use disorder and mental health through awareness. By cultivating empathy, compassion and acceptance, communities can serve as pillars of strength for those grappling with these intertwined challenges, offering a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.

In the pursuit of alcohol use and related disorders and mental health advocacy, every voice matters. Whether sharing personal experiences, spotlighting marginalised voices or advocating for policy changes, each action contributes to a more inclusive and supportive society. Together, we can shatter the silence and dismantle the stigma, illuminating the path towards healing and recovery.

In conclusion the awareness for alcohol use disorder and mental health are intrinsically linked, each exacerbating the challenges posed by the other. By fostering awareness, promoting integrated therapeutic treatment approaches and cultivating supportive communities, we can address the root causes of this dual crisis and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.

Jyotirao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was an Indian social reformer and a writer whose contributions to revolutionizing rights for the Indian masses are immense. He was one of the most influential voices in history against the widespread caste system. He fought for the rights of lower castes and revolted against the Brahmanical rule. 

Early Life

Jyotirao Phule was born near the district of Pune in present-day Maharashtra. He belonged to the Mali caste which falls within the Shudra social class which is the lowest class according to the varnas. His parents worked as fruit and vegetable farmers. Since most lower-caste children were uneducated, Jyotirao Puhle also withdrew from pursuing higher education. Instead, he started working on the family’s farm.

Contrary to the traditional, one of his neighbours persuaded his father to allow Phule to pursue higher education. Following this, Phule started attending a school which was run by Scottish Christian missionaries. His fascination and inspiration with historical movements and various thinkers began here. He learnt about Thomas Paine and his Rights of Man. He was also inspired by the anti-slavery movements in America. At the same time, he was also fascinated with the ideas behind Buddhism and Kabir’s poetry. 

Jyotirao Phule: Contributions to Indian Society

Jyotirao Phule made important contributions to social reform, especially by opposing the caste system and promoting female equality and education. After a personal experience at a friend’s wedding in 1848, he became aware of the injustices of caste prejudice. This urged him to build a revolutionary school in Pune for lower-caste girls. His wife, Savitribai Phule, taught there. Phule continued to pursue his goal of educating and uplifting underprivileged people despite opposition from orthodox Brahmins. He expanded his efforts to build schools for those from lower castes. Additionally, he continued to advocate for widows’ rights and against child marriage. 

He founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, a reform organisation, in 1873. The aim of this was to improve social justice and challenge the caste system. Phule’s devotion to social justice and solidarity was highlighted by his inclusive approach, which included inviting individuals from all socioeconomic classes into his home and sharing his water well with the community. Through his widely published works, such as the well-known “Gulamgiri” (Slavery), Phule sought to highlight the caste system’s oppressive aspects and push social reform. His unwavering efforts to eradicate social injustices and promote a more just and equitable society in India will always be remembered.

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a lack of understanding of social cues, challenges in communication and restricted patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. Autism is considered a “spectrum”, considering the wide variation of type and severity of symptoms people experience. It is essential to think that this article aims to spread awareness and knowledge about the topic, not diagnose people. 

Autism Acceptance Month is observed annually in April, where it serves to spread awareness about Autism and empower and reignite the needs and wants of Autistic individuals. It is also maintained to provide knowledge about their world. Researching is an umbrella term formed from recent years of the understanding that Autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Global Development Delay and other neurological disorders are normal and are a variation in being human. It celebrates being different and promotes inclusivity. At the same time, people under the spectrum are described as Neurodiverse; the people deemed as “normal” are termed “Neurotypicals” to debunk the normality accepted in the world and support the difference in humans. The need for Autism Acceptance Month is crucial as the questions of acceptance as human beings are essential and the need of the hour to respect and support individuals who are autistic and embrace them as valuable individuals of society. However, in the current scenario, autistic are often faced with obstacles and challenges while living their daily lives and routines.

Some of the discrimination faced by Autistics include

Accessibility: Trains, buses, cabs, and other forms of transportation do not consider the difficulty autistics face in communicating their needs, especially regarding sensory challenges. Several of these services have been designed keeping in mind the Neurotypicals’ needs but fail to take into consideration the needs of differently-abled and Neurodiverse people. A structured, inclusive approach to fulfilling all the community’s needs can help create acceptance. 

Education system: The education system lacks the understanding and needs of Autistic individuals who have individualistic support and care. Many teaching professionals lack the knowledge and expertise with respect to Autism and its associated characteristics. This knowledge gap often results in inadequate support and accommodations for autistic students, hindering their academic and social development within the educational environment.

Sociability: Considering the difficulties Autistics face in communication, socialising is a barrier for them to overcome. While understanding the same, it is also important to take initiative and form relationships with Autistic individuals. It serves as a sign of acceptance and respect. This hinders their development, especially for autistic children where sociability becomes crucial during their early years to understand their environment. Therefore, enough research is needed for the parents to make to secure better 

Lack of employment opportunities: Autistic individuals face a variety of challenges in employment opportunities which in turn affects the acceptance they receive from the world. Their skills and abilities are underestimated and are not utilized to the highest degree. 

Lack of knowledge: Neurotypicals are not aware of the existence of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and Neurodiversity which go hand in hand. It is necessary for people to have an inquiry into their world and accept them accordingly. To create a better world, we must ensure it is a beautiful place for everyone to live in.

 Given the difficulties and challenges the Autistic community faces, we, as Neurotypicals, can ensure a better world for all of us to live in. 

Here are some of the ways Neurotypicals can be helpful to the autistic community

Promote inclusivity: Inclusivity is the action that represents autistic individuals by fostering environments that embrace their unique needs and perspectives. Ensuring equal opportunities and respect, creating a sense of belonging where everyone feels valued. By promoting inclusivity, we create a society where autistic individuals can fully participate and thrive, celebrating their diversity and contributions to our communities.

Be tolerant: Understanding the communication barriers that exist and also the differences in forming relationships, it is important to stay tolerant and educate ourselves in the most optimal ways to develop relationships with Autistic individuals. Therefore, patience and tolerance can be abided by to assure better living standards together.

Educate ourselves: Educating ourselves and gaining understanding becomes imperative to empathise and put ourselves in situations that discriminate against Autistics the basic human rights. While doing so, we can also advocate for inclusivity, challenge stigma, and support initiatives that promote acceptance and equal opportunities for autistic individuals.

Advocate for accessibility: Advocate for inclusive policies, programs, and services that promote accessibility and accommodate the needs of autistic individuals in education, employment, healthcare, and other areas of society. This includes ensuring that educational institutions provide tailored support and accommodations, employers offer inclusive hiring practices and workplace accommodations, healthcare facilities offer sensory-friendly environments and accessible services, and community organizations offer inclusive recreational and social opportunities. 

Stay flexible: To stay flexible concerning autistic individuals as neurotypicals, it’s essential to recognise and respect their unique needs and preferences. Be open-minded and adaptable in communication and interactions, allowing for diverse communication styles and sensory sensitivities. Embrace a person-centred approach, valuing individual strengths and supporting autonomy and self-expression. By fostering an inclusive and accepting environment, neurotypicals can cultivate meaningful connections and promote the well-being and success of autistic individuals.

Autism Awareness Month: A Recap

 As Autism Awareness Month continues, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing neurodiversity and promoting acceptance and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum. Throughout this month, celebrate the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals while raising awareness about the challenges they may face. However, our commitment to autism awareness and neurodiversity extends far beyond the confines of a single month; it is a year-round endeavour that requires ongoing education, advocacy, and action.

Autism Awareness Month has provided a platform for amplifying the voices of autistic individuals, highlighting their experiences, and advocating for their rights. It has been a time for sparking meaningful conversations, challenging stigma, and fostering understanding and empathy within our communities. From awareness-raising events and educational campaigns to social media initiatives and fundraising efforts, individuals and organisations worldwide have come together to show their support for autism acceptance and inclusion.

Moving forward, it is imperative that we continue to prioritize neurodiversity in all aspects of society. This means creating inclusive environments that accommodate the diverse needs of autistic individuals in education, employment, healthcare, and beyond. It means advocating for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities and access to support services. And it means fostering a culture of acceptance, respect, and appreciation for the unique contributions of neurodiverse individuals.

By embracing neurodiversity, we enrich our communities with diverse perspectives and talents and create a more equitable and compassionate society for all. As we reflect on Autism Awareness Month and our strides, let us recommit ourselves to the ongoing journey towards autism acceptance and inclusion. Together, we can build a world where everyone is valued, celebrated, and empowered to thrive, regardless of their neurodiversity.

Every Year on 7th April, we celebrate World Health Day. To raise awareness about health-related issues and advocate for universal access to healthcare. As we commemorate World Health Day this year, it is essential to delve into the profound relationship between mind and body, highlighting the principles of health psychology that are indispensable in promoting overall well-being.

Health Psychology is a field that examines how psychological factors influence health and illness, emphasising the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. It recognises that our thoughts, emotions and behaviours significantly impact our overall well-being, shaping our health outcomes and quality of life.

The Biopsychosocial Model: 

One of the essential characteristics of health psychology is the biopsychosocial model, which says that health and illness result from biological, psychological, and social factors. Understanding this model allows us to see that biological workings do not solely determine health. However, they are also influenced by psychological and social factors such as stress, lifestyle choices, social support, and socioeconomic status.

Stress : 

For instance, stress is a common psychological factor that can significantly impact our health. Chronic stress has been linked to a plethora of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, weakened immune function, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. By managing stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices and seeking social support, individuals can mitigate its adverse effects on their health.

Lifestyle :

Healthy behaviours play an essential role in shaping our well-being. Adapting healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol can promote physical health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Health psychologists work to understand the psychological factors that influence health behaviours and develop interventions to promote positive behaviour change.

Mind-Body Connection: 

Another important aspect of health psychology is the mind-body connection, which has a vital influence on psychological factors and physical health. Research has shown that our mental and emotional states can impact physiological processes in the body, affecting immune function, hormone levels and even the healing rate. Practices like meditation, visualisation and biofeedback harness the power of the mind to promote healing and enhance overall well-being.

Social Support : 

Social support and interpersonal relationships are vital in maintaining health and resilience. Strong social connections have been linked to better physical and mental health outcomes. While loneliness and social isolation can adversely affect health. Building and nurturing supportive relationships can buffer against the adverse effects of stress and adversity, fostering resilience and promoting well-being.

World Health Day : 

As we observe World Health Day, let us understand the importance of embracing a holistic approach to health that recognises the importance of mind-body connection and stress with the help of the biopsychosocial model. By integrating concepts of health psychology, such as lifestyle change and social support, into our lives, we can empower ourselves to make informed choices, cultivate resilience, and strive towards optimal well-being. Together, let us prioritise mental and physical health, laying the foundation for a healthier and happier future.

In the world of Tamil Literature and cultural history, Manonmaniyam P. Sundaram was a luminary whose contributions continue to resonate; Sundaram’s legacy is intertwined with notable works such as his acclaimed Tamil Drama “ Manonmaniyam” and the revered state song of Tamil Nadu, “Tamil Thai Valthu.”

Born on 4th April 1855, Sundaram embarked on a journey of intellectual enthusiasm and literary excellence. His collaboration with Scottish Professor Harvey resulted in the seminal work “Some Early Sovereigns of Travancore,” understanding his interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and his commitment to exploring diverse realms of knowledge.

Sundaram’s impact extended beyond academia as he assumed the role of the first Principal of the MDT Hindu College in Tirunelveli, leaving an indelible mark on educational institutions. His tenure saw the publication of significant works, including the revered “Chathira Saugiragam” and his magnum opus, “Manonmaniam.”

Tragically, Sundaram’s remarkable journey was cut short by diabetes, and he passed away on April 26th 1897, at the young age of 42. Yet, his legacy endures through his literary masterpiece and his profound influence on subsequent generations of scholars and writers.

The impact of Sundaram’s contributions reverberates in various spheres, including cinema and politics. The 1942 cinematic adaptation of “Manonmani” is a testament to his work’s enduring relevance, captivating audiences with its timeless narrative and cultural significance.

Sundaram’s influence extends to the political arena through his descendants, notably his son P.S.Nataraja Pillai, who made significant contributions as a statesman and parliamentarian; his political affiliations with the Indian National Congress and the Praja Socialist Party of India underscore the enduring legacy of service and commitment instilled in by his father.

In recognition of his monumental legacy, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University is a testament to Sundaram’s enduring legacy, serving as a beacon of knowledge and learning in his honour.

As we remember the life and works of Manonmaniyam P.Sundaram, we pay tribute to the visionary scholar whose intellectual curiosity, literary prowess and cultural insights continue to enrich the tapestry of Tamil Literature and Heritage.