Self-management with alcohol over lifespan: psychological mechanisms, neurobiological underpinnings, and risk assessment

Müller CP, Schumann G, Rehm J, Kornhuber J, Lenz B (2023)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2023

Journal

Molecular Psychiatry Springer Nature

DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02074-3

Abstract

Self-management includes all behavioural measures and cognitive activities aimed at coping with challenges arising throughout the lifespan. While virtually all of these challenges can be met without pharmacological means, alcohol consumption has long been instrumentalized as a supporting tool to help coping with problems arising selectively at adolescence, adulthood, and ageing. Here, we present, to our knowledge, the first systematic review of alcohol instrumentalization throughout lifespan. We searched MEDLINE, Google Scholar, PsycINFO and CINAHL (from Jan, 1990, to Dec, 2022) and analysed consumption patterns, goals and potential neurobiological mechanisms. Evidence shows a regular non-addictive use of alcohol to self-manage developmental issues during adolescence, adulthood, and ageing. Alcohol is selectively used to overcome problems arising from dysfunctional personality traits, which manifest in adolescence. A large range of psychiatric disorders gives rise to alcohol use for the self-management of distinct symptoms starting mainly in adulthood. We identify those neuropharmacological effects of alcohol that selectively serve self-management under specific conditions. Finally, we discuss the adverse effects and associated risks that arise from the use of alcohol for self-management. Even well-controlled alcohol use adversely impacts health. Based on these findings, we suggest the implementation of an entirely new view. Health policy action may actively embrace both sides of the phenomenon through a personalized informed use that allows for harm-controlled self-management with alcohol.

Authors with CRIS profile

Peter Christian Müller Professur für Suchtmedizin Johannes Kornhuber Lehrstuhl für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie

Involved external institutions

Fudan University / 复旦大学 CN China (CN) Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) CA Canada (CA) Universitätsklinikum Mannheim DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Müller, C.P., Schumann, G., Rehm, J., Kornhuber, J., & Lenz, B. (2023). Self-management with alcohol over lifespan: psychological mechanisms, neurobiological underpinnings, and risk assessment. Molecular Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-023-02074-3

MLA:

Müller, Christian P., et al. "Self-management with alcohol over lifespan: psychological mechanisms, neurobiological underpinnings, and risk assessment." Molecular Psychiatry (2023).

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