Limitations of data collection combined with social stigma result in a challenging situation for those dealing with alcohol addiction, according to toxicologist and addiction specialist Dr. Sonila Bitri in an interview with Euronews Albania\u2019s journalist Alice Taylor.<\/p>\n
Dr. Bitri shed light on the underreported nature of the issue, the importance of recognizing alcohol abuse as a chronic disease, and the significance of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes psychotherapy and ongoing care.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think the problem is underreported even in the statistics of the government. Taking raki in the morning is a habit; it is considered healthy \u2013 it helps the heart, so people don\u2019t understand it can cause damage. They also don\u2019t know how much is \u2018normal\u2019 and think two or three glasses a day is ok,\u201d Dr. Bitri said.<\/p>\n
While statistics may indicate a low number of cases, the cultural acceptance of consuming traditional alcoholic beverages, such as raki, as part of daily routines obscures the extent of the problem. Many individuals are unaware of the potential harm caused by excessive alcohol consumption and perceive it as a normal aspect of their lifestyle. Consequently, the actual prevalence of alcohol abuse in the country remains largely hidden, with only severe cases being reported.<\/p>\n
She added they think it is a lifestyle and it is not reported as a problem.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is like an iceberg and we only see the tip of it,\u201d she said, adding some people don\u2019t even consider these two or three glasses a day as drinking alcohol.<\/p>\n
Sonila stressed the importance of recognizing alcohol abuse as a chronic brain disease. This understanding helps to dispel societal stigmas associated with addiction. Comparing it to chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, he emphasized that alcohol use disorders require ongoing treatment and support. By acknowledging addiction as a treatable disease, individuals and their families can approach the recovery process with hope and optimism.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we understand it is a chronic disease, we understand it is treatable. That is really important because sometimes when the family and patient come in my office, they are hopeless. They are trying but don\u2019t think the person will ever get over the problem,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She added that people stigmatize alcohol addiction, but rather we should consider it the same as other chronic conditions like diabetes.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe as a society can more easily admit a patient with diabetes than a patient with alcohol use disorders. We don\u2019t stigmatize a patient with diabetes, but we stigmatize a patient with alcohol use disorders. He deserved that disease because he\u2019s using alcohol for his own pleasure \u2013 we have to do a lot to change this mentality,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
But when it comes to treatment, Dr. Bitri also highlighted the obstacles faced in Albania, such as the lack of specific medications and affordable outpatient rehabilitation centers.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are medications that help prevent relapse which are not available in Albania,\u201d she said, adding that often patients have to seek medication or treatment abroad which is not possible for everyone due to economic constraints. She also explained there is no state rehab facility, just several private ones that also have high costs.<\/p>\n
In addition, Dr. Bitri believes psychotherapy is essential to treating the ongoing disease, something that is a new concept for many toxicologists who are used to treating just the acute condition.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe cannot cure addiction without psychotherapy. And this is something new for most of clinical toxicologists. Until recently, we dealt only with physical part, but I\u2019m more and more convinced that this cannot be cured only with drugs with pills,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
But asides from practical and medical steps to recovering, Dr. Bitri emphasizes the role of love, understanding, and support from family and loved ones in the recovery process.<\/p>\n
She emphasized that alcohol abuse affects not only the individual but also their families and the wider society. Families and loved ones should encourage treatment and provide a nurturing environment that fosters the individual\u2019s commitment to change.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s really hard to love somebody who has this this problem. But when it\u2019s love, I say to the women, let\u2019s give a last chance. Sometimes, for the couples that come to my office, rehabilitation is the last possibility for their family,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut I see families that have overcome this problem and have another life now and when I see these things, I become more optimistic and beg family members, if you love him, let\u2019s give another chance because the individual who has this addiction is not always aware of the consequences,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
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You can watch Dr. Bitri\u2019s interview to Inside Albania in the link below.<\/p>\n