Massachusetts Alcohol Addiction: Judicial Attitudes toward Alcoholics

In Part I, Massachusetts (MA) Drug Addiction: judicial attitudes toward drug abuse offenders, I discussed how the Massachusetts judicial system handles criminal drug abusers. However, Massachusetts also has a high number of alcoholics. A recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) study found that Massachusetts is among the top ten states for binge alcohol drinking (five or more drinks on one day in a month). It is estimated that 25% of Massachusetts residents binge drink. Although there are no conclusive explanations as to why Massachusetts has such a high rate of alcoholism, perhaps some insight can be gained by an examination of the number of college students who reside in the state compared to states with lower rates of alcoholism. Whatever the reason, Massachusetts residents clearly have a problem controlling their alcohol intake. … Continue Reading

Judicial Attitudes toward Drug Abuse: Massachusetts

Researchers now believe that alcohol and drug addiction has a genetic component. The Kennedy family of Massachusetts is perhaps the most infamous evidence of the biological roots of alcoholism and drug use. Ted Kennedy, the democratic Senator from Massachusetts, has long struggled with an alcohol problem, as has his first wife, Joan.

Both Ted and Joan have have struggled to stay sober over the years. Their son, Patrick Kennedy, also suffers from substance abuse issues. He has previously admitted to being addicted to prescription drugs, and sought treatment for cocaine addiction when he was a teenager. Just this year he announced that he would enter alcohol rehab for yet another round of substance abuse treatment. … Continue Reading