SOC SCI 4 SOCIAL SCIENCE AND PHILOSOPHY

MIDTERM HANDOUTS

LEARNING MODULE 4: THE BACKGROUND OF RELIGION

Topics
4.1. The Elements and types of Religion
4.2. The Perspective on Religion
4.3. The World Major Religions and their basic beliefs

Course Outcomes and Learning Outcomes

Course Outcome/s:
Recognize and expound various aspects, impacts and concepts of religion experiences and
spiritualities in the community, world and society.

Learning Outcomes: The students are expected to:

1. Understand the elements and types of religion.
2. Be aware with the categories and perception of religion.
3. Distinguish the World Major Religions and their basic beliefs.
Overview
 Religion is a system of beliefs and practices based on some sacred or supernatural realm
that guides human behavior, gives meaning to life, and unites believers into a single moral
community. The content if this lesson shows the elements of religion such as;
Religious beliefs, Rituals, Religious Experience and Community believers. It also describes the
types of religion which are; Simple supernaturalism, Animism, Theism, Transcendental and
Idealism. Lastly, the perspectives of religion are conversed in this lesson as well as the World’s
Major Religion Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism.

Discussion

5.1.1. THE ELEMENTS OF RELIGION

Religion is a system of beliefs and practices (rituals), based on some sacred or
supernatural realm that guides human behavior, gives meaning to life, and unites believers into
a single moral community It is composed of four basic elements.

 Religious beliefs are statements to which members of a particular religion adhere.

They organize an individual’s perception of the world and serve as guide for behavior.
For example, animist religions hold that the world is populated by spirits with motives
and emotions like our own. This animist belief in spirits explains the occurrence of illness
or accidents and prescribes a course of action.
Religious beliefs also seek to bridge the gap between the known and the
unknown, the seen and the unseen, and the sacred and the secular.

 People often act out their religious beliefs in the form of Rituals – regularly repeated
and carefully prescribed forms of behaviors that symbolize a cherished value or belief.
Rituals range from songs and prayers to processions and chants to offerings and
sacrifices.
Religious rituals differ from everyday actions in that believers attach a symbolic
meaning to them. For example, lighting candles on a menorah to commemorate
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, means something quite different to Jews from
decorating the table with candles on an ordinary night.
  In sociological study of religion, the term Religious Experience refers to the feeling or
perception of being in direct contact with the ultimate reality, such as a divine being, or
of being overcome with religious emotion.
The subjective experiences of religion grow out of beliefs and rituals. Religious
experiences may range from the quiet sense of peace that comes from the belief that
one’s life is in the hands of a divine power to the intense mystical experiences that
inspire terror and awe. People may feel transported from everyday reality or experience
being outside their own bodies or in the presence of supernatural beings.

 Belonging to a Community of Believers is a central part of religious experience.

Shared beliefs, rituals, and subjective experiences heighten group identification.
Emile Durkheim was a pioneer in the sociology of religion. In 1912, he published
an influential book, The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life, in which he attempted
to identify the elements common to all religions. He discovered no specific belief or
practice that they all shared. He, however, found that all religions, regardless of their
name or teaching, separate the sacred from the profane. On the other hand, the
profane is anything that is regarded as part of the ordinary rather than the
supernatural world. The profane may be symbolized by a rock, the moon, a king, or a
symbol.

5.1.2. BASIC TYPES OF RELIGION

Different religious can be classified into a series of basic types. One useful classification
is that of Reece McGee, who divides religion into four main categories according to their central
belief.
 Simple supernaturalism is a type of religion that does not recognize gods or spirits
but assumes that supernatural forces influence human events for better or worse. This
type of religion is common in very simple preindustrial societies.

 Animism is a type of religion that recognizes active, animate spirits operating in the
world. These spirits may be found in people as well as in natural phenomena such as
rivers, mountains, and the weather. The spirits may be benevolent or evil, or they may
even be indifferent to human beings, but they are not gods; they are not worshipped.
 It is also associated with early hunting and gathering societies and with many
native American societies, in which everyday life is not separated from the elements of
the natural world (Albanese, 1992 in Kendal, 2001).
 Theism is a type of religion that centers on a belief in gods. Theistic religious postulate
the existence of one or more gods not of human origin that are believed to play a role in
the creation and maintenance of the universe and take an interest in human affairs.
The most common form of theism is polytheism, a belief in a number of gods.
For example, the Dahomeans of western Africa believed in many gods, each being held
responsible for the creation of a certain part of nature. Dahomean gods went to war,
participated in sexual activities, conducted business, and were prone to creating a
degree of mischief.
A second form of theism is monotheism, the belief in a single supreme being.
This supreme god is ultimately responsible for the universe.

 Transcendental Idealism is a type of religion that centers on sacred principles of

thought and conducts. Religions of transcendent idealism are characterized by reverence
for such principles as life, truth, and tolerance of other beliefs. This type of religion is
found mostly in Asia; the best known example is Buddhism. Buddhism is concerned with
the attempt to become “at one with the universe” through many years of meditation
(Robertson, 198).

5.2. PERSPECTIVE ON RELIGION

5.2.1. Functionalist Perspective. Emile Durkheim was one of the first sociologists to
say that religion is important in the maintenance of society. He suggested that religion was a
cultural universal found in all societies because it met basic human needs and served important
societal functions.
These functions are as follows;
 Questions about ultimate meaning. Religion provide answers to puzzling questions
about ultimate meaning – such as the purpose of life, why people suffer, and an
existence of an afterlife. Those answers give people a sense of purpose. Rather than
seeing themselves pounded by random events in an aimless existence, religious
believers see their lives as fitting into a divine plan.
 Emotional comfort. The answers that religion provides about ultimate meaning also
comfort people by assuring them that there is a purpose to life, even to suffering.
Likewise, religious rituals that cover critical events such as illness and death provide
emotional comfort at times of crisis. The individual knows that others care and can find
consolation in following familiar rituals.

 Social solidarity. Religious teachings and practices unite believers into a community
that shares values and perspectives (“we Jews,” “we Christians”). The religious rituals
that surround marriage, for example, link the bride and groom with a broader
community that wishes them well. So do other religious rituals, such as those that
celebrate birth and mourn death.

 Guidelines for everyday life. The teachings of religion also apply to people’s
everyday lives. For instance, four of the Ten Commandments delivered by Moses to the
Israelites concern God, but the other six contain instructions on how to live everyday
life, from how to get along with parents, employers, and neighbors to warnings about
lying, stealing, and adultery.

 Social control. Religion also controls people’s behaviors. Most norms of a religious
group apply only to its members, but some set limits on non-members also. In the
United States, for example, law that prohibits the sale of alcohol before noon on
Sunday’s, was applied to all; even to those whose religion does not require them to go
to church on Sundays.

 Adaptation. Religion can help people adapt to new environments. For instance, it is
difficult for immigrants to adjust to the confusing customs of a new land. By keeping
their native language alive and preserving familiar rituals and teachings, religion
provides continuity with the immigrants’ cultural past.

 Support for the government. Most religions provide support for the government. In
the United States, the U.S. flag is prominently displayed in many churches. For its part,
 governments reciprocate by supporting God - as witnessed by the inaugural speeches of
the U.S. presidents, who invariably ask God to bless the nation.

 Social Change. There are occasions when religion spearheads change. In the 1960s,
for instance, the civil rights movement in the United States, which fought to desegregate
public facilities and abolish racial discrimination at southern polls was led by the religious
leaders. Churches also served as places where demonstrators were trained and rallies
were organized.

5.2.2. Conflict Perspective.

In religion it is a part of the work of Karl Marx who argued that religion could serve as a
mechanism for perpetuating patterns of dominance and subordination. To understand how
religion can play this role, it is best to use the concept of alienation, which refers to feelings of
separation, isolation, and powerlessness.
Once this alienation happens, it serves to protect the status quo because people feel
helpless in the face of powerful spiritual forces that presumably shaped society. Furthermore,
Marx said, it would seem arrogant for human beings to change what they believe some deity
has ordained. In this way, groups benefiting from existing social arrangement find their
positions protected by the force of religion. In India, for instance, the Hindu religion justifies an
elaborate caste system in which some people are born into high positions whereas others are
relegated at birth to a highly stigmatized outcaste position. The Hindu belief in reincarnation
encourages people to accept their fate rather than attempt to change society.

5.2.3. Symbolic Interactionist Perspective. All religious use symbols to provide

identity and social solidarity for their members. For Muslims, the primary symbol is the crescent
moon and star; for Jews, the star of David; for Christians, the cross. For members, these are
not ordinary symbols, but sacred emblems that evoke feelings of awe and reverence.
Rituals, ceremonies or repetitive practices, are also symbols that help unite people into a
moral community. Some rituals, such as the bar mitzvah of Jewish boys and Holy Communion
of Christians, are designed to create in the devout a feeling of closeness with God and unity
with one another.

5.3. THE WORLD’S MAJOR RELIGIONS

 While there are thousands of different religions in the world, the five oldest religions are
generally described as the main world religions. These religions are Buddhism, Christianity,
Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. Discover some basic facts about these religions and get an
overview of their core beliefs:

Population Percentages by Religion

Religion Population Percentage

Christianity 31.5%
Islam 23.2%
Hindu 15%
Buddhism 7.1%
Judaism 0.2%
No religious affiliation 16.3
Other religions 6.7%

Christianity Overview
Christianity is the largest religion in the world, with more than 2 billion believers worldwide.
The United States is home to the largest Christian population, but Christianity is widespread in
many other places, including Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, several African nations, many
European countries, and numerous Caribbean islands. There are many versions of Christianity,
including Catholicism and various protestant denominations, each differing in many ways yet
remaining similar in central teachings.
 Christianity is a monotheistic religion, which means that followers believe there is only
one true God.
 Worship of God is an important aspect of Christianity.
 Christians believe in the Holy Trinity, represented by the divinity of the Father (God),
son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit.
 Christian teachings are grounded in the Old Testament and the New Testament that
together form the Holy Bible. There are several editions of the Christian bible; not all
denominations use the same version.
 Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, sent to earth as a man and a
messiah to save people from their sins.
 A central focus of this religion is the belief that Jesus died as a result of being crucified
on a cross, leading to the forgiveness of mankind’s sins.
 After being entombed for three days, Jesus rose from the dead and then ascended from
earth to heaven to be reunited with God.
  Christians have faith that there will be a second coming in which Jesus will return to
Earth and take Christian believers back to heaven with him.
 The Ten Commandments play an important role in Christian teachings.

Islam Overview
Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with an estimated 1.8 billion followers. Muslim
is the term for people who follow the Islamic religion. This religion is believed to have begun in
the 7th century B.C. in what is now Saudi Arabia. While Muslims live in many countries
worldwide, they make up the majority of the population in several countries. There are seven
countries where more than 90% of the population is Muslim (Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran,
Iraq, Turkey, and Pakistan). Some places follow Islamic (Sharia) law. Key facts about Islam
includes:
 The Islamic faith is monotheistic, believing in Allah as the one true God.
 Islamic places of worship are referred to as mosques.
 Those who follow Islam commit to living life in submission to the will of Allah.
 The Islamic faith teaches that the prophet Muhammad is Allah’s final messenger, who
continued to receive messages from Allah to share with the people.
 After Muhammad’s death, other leaders rose in his place under a system called the
caliphate, with the individual leaders being referred to as caliphs.
 There are two major sects within Islam: Sunnis and Shiites. The majority (90%) of
Muslims are Sunnis.
 Muslims pray at five specific times throughout each day, following a specific prayer
ritual.
 F required to fast during the month of Ramadan.
 Muslims are expected to complete a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in
their lives.
 Many Muslim women wear a hijab that covers their hair, while others wear a niquab or
burka, which conceals more of their appearance.
 The Quaran is the holy book of Islam.

Hinduism Overview
 Hinduism began in India around 2300 B.C. and remains prevalent on that subcontinent. As
of 2018, about 94% of those who follow the Hindu faith live in India. It is third largest religion
in the world, with fewer followers than only Christianity and Islam. As with all religions, there
are multiple sects of Hinduism, each with some variations in their practices. Core beliefs of
Hinduism include:
 Hinduism teaches that God’s presence exists in all of creation.
 In the Hindu faith, God goes by many names and manifests in infinite ways.
 Brahman is the recognized supreme deity (God) responsible for creating everything in
the universe. Brahman has no gender and is all-knowing and all-present.
 Shiva and Vishnu are the other primary Hindu deities (gods).
 There are many other deities (called devis), demi-gods (called devas) and goddesses,
with significant variations among specific sects.
 The divine essence (called atman) dwells within each person.
 Hindus believe in reincarnation, with a constant cycle of being born, living and dying on
the path to enlightenment.
 A person’s karma, which refers to the net of their good and bad deeds in the last life,
determines the level into which they’ll be reborn.
 Rather than a single religious book, Hinduism has a number of sacred texts, including
the Vedas, the Samhitas, the Upanishads, the Ramayana, and the Bhagavad Gita.
 Yoga practice is an integral component of Hinduism.
 Cows are viewed as sacred in the Hindu faith; eating beef is prohibited.

Buddhism Overview
Buddhism was founded in the fifth century B.C. by Siddhartha Gautama, who later
became known as the Buddha. After giving up an extravagant life of excess, the man who came
to be known as the Buddha discovered enlightenment through giving up his wealth and position
to live a simple life as a monk. His efforts to teach others how to do the same became the
foundation of Buddhism.
The vast majority of Buddhists live in the eastern and southeastern regions of Asia. There
are numerous traditions within Buddhism, each with varying practices. Theism is not
fundamental to Buddhism, though it is part of some Buddhist traditions. Fundamental beliefs of
Buddhism include:
 The primary focus of Buddhism is to seek enlightenment.
 The Buddha is not worshiped as a god. He was a man and is recognized by Buddhists as
such.
 The foundation of Buddhism is based on a set of three universal truths and four noble
principles.
 Consistent with philosophy’s principles and truths, Buddhists follow a path of moral
living, thinking and behavior, as well as seeking wisdom.
 Buddhism has five precepts to which followers are expected to adhere. These precepts
dictate that Buddhists refrain from killing, stealing, lying, misusing sex, and using drugs
or alcohol.
 Karma is an important factor in Buddhism, focusing on each individual’s responsibility
and accountability for their own actions.
 Buddhists believe in reincarnation and rebirth. In the Buddhist tradition, being
reincarnated means coming back as yourself multiple times, while rebirth involves
returning as an entirely different entity.
 The Buddhist religion includes a number of sacred writings, in the form of scriptures and
texts, that share the Buddha’s philosophy and teachings.

Judaism Overview
Judaism is the smallest of the top five religions. The worldwide population of Jewish
people is estimated to be approximately 14 million. About 41% of the Jewish population lives in
Israel and 41% lives in the United States, with most of the remainder concentrated in Europe
and elsewhere in North America. There are multiple denominations of Judaism, including
orthodox, conservative and reform. Core teachings and practices of the faith include:
 Judaism is a monotheistic religion, with followers recognizing and worshiping only one
true God. It is the oldest monotheistic religion.
 The Ten Commandments play an important role in the teachings of Judaism.
  Even beyond God’s law outlined in the Ten Commandments, righteousness and justice
are central to the teachings of Judaism.
 Israel is an important place in the hearts and minds of the Jewish people, both for its
historical significance in relation to their faith and its designation as the promised land in
the Bible.
 The Hebrew Bible, which is also referred to as the Tanakh, is the primary holy text of
the Jewish faith. It includes the same books as the Old Testament of the Christian bible,
though they are in a different order. The first five books of the Hebrew bible form the
Torah.
 The Talmud is another holy text in Judaism. It includes an extensive collection of Jewish
laws and various teachings specific to the faith.
 Synagogue is the name for Jewish houses of worship.
 Young people in the Jewish faith go through Bar Mitzvah (boys) and Bat Mitzvah (girls)
ceremonies to symbolize that they have reached adulthood in terms of their
responsibilities to the faith.

References:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/religious-experience/Religious-experience-and-other-
experience

https://www.facinghistory.org/holocaust-and-human-behavior/chapter-1/religion-and-identity

https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/96773618.pdf

https://examples.yourdictionary.com/5-main-world-religions-and-their-basic-beliefs.html
 Checkpoint

ACTIVITY 5.1. IDENTIFICATION

Direction: Identify what is being asked. Write your answers on the space provided.

____________1. Believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, sent to earth as a man and a
messiah to save people from their sins.
____________2. It is a part of the work of Karl Marx who argued that religion could serve as
a mechanism for perpetuating patterns of dominance and subordination.
____________3. It centers on sacred principles of thought and conduct.
____________4. They organize an individual’s perception of the world and serve as guide for
behavior.
____________5. It recognizes active, animate spirits operating in the world. These spirits
may be found in people as well as in natural phenomena such as rivers, mountains, and the
weather.
____________6. They believe that there are many gods.
____________7. Does not recognize gods or spirits but assumes that supernatural forces
influence human events for better or worse.
____________8. Differ from everyday actions in that believers attach a symbolic meaning to
them.
____________9. Is believed to have begun in the 7th century B.C.
____________10. He suggested that religion was a cultural universal found in all societies
because it met basic human needs and served important societal functions.
 Do This

ACTIVITY 5.2. PROVIDE WHAT IS BEING ASKED.

Direction: Explain the following and have your personal opinions and views in not
less than 100 words.
Rubrics:
Descriptions 5 points
Conventional Knowledge 5 points
Total 10 Points

1. What is the significance of elements in religion? Explain. (Equivalent to 10 points)

2. How does religion influence your daily life? Explain. (Equivalent to 10 points)
 .

LEARNING MODULE 5: SPIRITUALITIES (TAKING CARE OF YOUR WELL-BEING)

Topics
5.1. The meaning of Spirituality
5.2. The relationship between religion and spirituality
5.3. Spirituality versus emotional health
5.4. Importance of Spirituality
5.5. List of Spiritual Activities for Self-Care

Course Outcomes and Learning Outcomes

Course Outcome/s:
Recognize and expound various aspects, impacts and concepts of religion experiences and
spiritualities in the community, world and society.

Learning Outcomes: The students are expected to:

1. Appreciate the meaning of spirituality
2. Identify the relationship between religion and spirituality
3. Recognize the importance of spirituality on emotional health being.
4. Distinguish the spiritual activities leading to self-care.

Overview
 Spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is
something greater than myself, something more to being human than sensory
experience, and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature.

Spirituality involves exploring certain universal themes – love, compassion, altruism, life
after death, wisdom, and truth, with the knowledge that some people such as saints or
enlightened individuals have achieved and manifested higher levels of development than the
ordinary person. Aspiring to manifest the attributes of such inspirational examples often
becomes an important part of the journey through life for spiritually inclined people.

The spiritual journey involves first healing and affirming the ego so that positive states
are experienced; with secure self-esteem, belief in self-worth and a capacity for love and
generosity, a person becomes less constrained by ego defenses. An opening of the heart is an
essential aspect of true spirituality. In this regard one may question the spiritual nature of
masochistic religious practices such as self-flagellation, which is based on a belief in the
wickedness inherent in the body rather than on any real connection with, and therefore
compassion for, the body.
Discussion

7.1. MEANING OF SPIRIUTALITY

Spirituality is a broad concept with room for many
perspectives. In general, it includes a sense of connection to
something bigger than us, and it typically involves a search for
meaning in life. As such, it is a universal human experience—
something that touches us all. People may describe a spiritual
experience as sacred or transcendent or simply a deep sense of aliveness and
interconnectedness.
Some may find that their spiritual life is intricately linked to their association with a
church, temple, mosque, or synagogue. Others may pray or find comfort in a personal
relationship with God or a higher power. Still others seek meaning through their connections to
nature or art. Like your sense of purpose, your personal definition of spirituality may change
throughout your life, adapting to your own experiences and relationships.

7.1.1. Spiritual questions

For many, spirituality is connected to large questions about life and identity, such as:
 Am I a good person?
 What is the meaning of my suffering?
 What is my connection to the world around me?
 Do things happen for a reason?
 How can I live my life in the best way possible?

7.1.2. Experts’ definitions of spirituality

 Christina Puchalski, MD, Director of the George Washington Institute for Spirituality and
Health, contends that "spirituality is the aspect of humanity that refers to the way
individuals seek and express meaning and purpose and the way they experience their
connectedness to the moment, to self, to others, to nature, and to the significant or
sacred."
 According to Mario Beauregard and Denyse O’Leary, researchers and authors of The
Spiritual Brain, “spirituality means any experience that is thought to bring the experiencer
into contact with the divine (in other words, not just any experience that feels
meaningful).”
 Nurses Ruth Beckmann Murray and Judith Proctor Zenter write that “the spiritual
dimension tries to be in harmony with the universe, and strives for answers about the
infinite, and comes into focus when the person faces emotional stress, physical illness, or
death.”
7.2. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RELIGION AND SPIRITUALITY
While spirituality may incorporate elements of religion, it is generally a broader concept.
Religion and spirituality are not the same thing, nor are they entirely distinct from one another.
The best way to understand this is to think of two overlapping circles like this:

 In spirituality, the questions are: where do I personally find meaning, connection, and
value?
 In religion, the questions are: what is true and right?
Where the circles overlap is the individual experience, which affects the way you
think, feel, and behave.

7.3. SPIRITUALITY VERSUS EMOTIONAL HEALTH

You will notice as you read on that many practices recommended for cultivating
spirituality are similar to those recommended for improving emotional wellbeing. This is
because there is a connection between the two—emotional and spiritual wellbeing
influence one another and overlap, as do all aspects of wellbeing.
  Spirituality is about seeking a meaningful connection with something bigger than yourself,
which can result in positive emotions, such as peace, awe, contentment, gratitude, and
acceptance.

 Emotional health is about cultivating a positive state of mind, which can broaden your
outlook to recognize and incorporate a connection to something larger than yourself.

7.4. IMPORTANCE OF SPIRITUALITY

There is a growing body of evidence indicating that spiritual practices are associated with
better health and wellbeing for many reasons, including:

 Contemplative practice is good for you.

Contemplative practices are activities that guide you to direct your attention to a specific
focus—often an inward-looking reflection or concentration on a specific sensation or concept.
Many spiritual traditions have a long history of using contemplative practices to increase
compassion, empathy, and attention, as well as quiet the mind.

 A spiritual community can improve your life.

Many spiritual traditions encourage participation in a community. Spiritual fellowship,
such as attending church or a meditation group, can be sources of social support which may
provide a sense of belonging, security, and community. Strong relationships have been proven to
increase wellbeing and bolster life expectancy, which is perhaps why one study found a strong
association between church attendance and improved health, mood, and wellbeing.

 Spiritual strength can help you overcome hardships.

Dr. Steven Southwick’s book, Resilience: The Science
of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges, describes how some
people overcome trauma—such as abduction, war, and
imprisonment—by seeking comfort in spirituality or religion.
He gives examples where spiritual people find ways to “meet
the challenge and continue with purposeful lives…they bounce
back and carry on.”
 Having a strong spiritual outlook may help you find meaning in life’s difficult
circumstances. Southwick describes the story of a woman who overcame the post-traumatic
stress following an abduction and rape by believing that her trauma “served as a platform for her
personal development, forcing her to evaluate her life and gradually change it for the better. She
credits her ability to move forward with her life…to her dedication to spirituality.”
The spiritual practice of recognizing the interconnectedness of all life can also help buffer
the pain that comes with difficult experiences. Researcher Kristin Neff says that “if we can
compassionately remind ourselves in moments of falling down that failure is part of the shared
human experience, then that moment becomes one of togetherness rather than isolation. When
our troubled, painful experiences are framed by the recognition that countless others have
undergone similar hardships, the blow is softened.”

 Spiritual people make healthier choices.

Adhering to a particular spiritual tradition may bring an indirect health benefit because
many traditions have rules about treating the body with kindness and avoiding unhealthy
behaviors. Research shows that perhaps because of these tenets, people who practice a religion
or faith tradition are less likely to smoke or drink, commit a crime, or become involved in violent
activity, and they are more likely to engage in preventative habits like wearing seatbelts and
taking vitamins.

 Spirituality may help you live longer.

An exhaustive review that compared spirituality and religiousness to other health
interventions found that people with a strong spiritual life had an 18% reduction in mortality.
Giancarlo Lucchetti, lead author of the study, calculates that the life-lengthening benefits of
spirituality can be compared to eating a high number of fruits and vegetables or taking blood
pressure medication. Although some researchers have suggested that the extent of spirituality’s
benefit on health is exaggerated, most researchers agree there is a positive relationship between
religious and spiritual practices and better health outcomes.

 Forgiveness is good medicine.

Letting go of blame and negative feelings after a hurtful incident is a practice that is
reflected by a number of spiritual traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and
Judaism. Modern science shows the health benefits of forgiveness are numerous: better immune
function, longer lifespan, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and fewer
feelings of anger or hurt.

7.5. LIST OF SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES FOR SELF-CARE

 Contemplation
“Contemplation involves
thinking continuously about
something, studying and musing over
it, usually something worthwhile and
important, pertaining to life and
meaning. When this kind of reflective
activity goes very deep, when a
person becomes still and highly
focused as they ponder, the ego
dissolves temporarily and
contemplation becomes increasingly
like meditation. Solutions to life’s
problems sometimes appear
spontaneously at such times.” via
Advancing on the Spiritual Path 3:
Secular Spiritual Practices
As Sam Veda says, “A man who
realizes the potential of his mind by
means of introspection and
contemplation does not lack self-
confidence. He has control over his mind, and he is able to realize its full potential.”

 Spending time in nature

 Spending time with nature is one of the best spiritual activities for self-care that we can
do to help us achieve optimal well-being. A study shows that spending time in nature
dramatically reduces stress and is also anti-inflammatory.
“For many people, once they awaken or have any kind of significant spiritual shift, there
is often a drive towards being in nature more. A part of us yearns for a connection that is free
of ego and other karmic junk while we open and clear out our issues.
Some people are talking about wanting a garden, moving to a cottage in a forest, or
something like that during some initial phases of awakening. Well, indulge that impulse. Go for
hikes. Spend time on a beach by the ocean or a lake. It can be a wonderful way to rejuvenate
yourself.”

 Non-judgement
If you have ever been in constant
judgment, you should agree that judgment
can be a toxic way to live and would not
help us achieve emotional and mental
health.
“Judgment robs us of the ability to
hear our inner guide. It is a way of
conforming to what is commonly accepted,
making it more likely that we ourselves will
fit in and be accepted, or in essence, loved. The fear of not being loved and accepted can lead
us to shun and reject others in an attempt to ensure that we are not shunned and rejected. By
living life in this way, we are submitting to the ebb and flow of the consensus rather than living
with a conscious intention for what we want our lives to be.” via Releasing Judgment

“When you free yourself from judging, you create a spirituality that is freeing. It’s open
to give and receive love on so many different levels. You feel calm and at peace because you’re
not assigning labels or creating positives and negatives. Everything is seen for its own inherent
beauty.”
  Regular acts of compassion
Have you ever experienced
random acts of kindness given by a
stranger? Do you remember how good
it feels? They say that kindness or
compassion has that ripple effect. And
that is true.
“When we are kind, no matter
how small our acts of kindness are, we
experience kindness coming back to us
from the whole existence. When we are kind, we feel our soul opening, expanding and
embracing the world. In this state of being, we feel transformed, as well as that we can help
transform the world. By performing acts of kindness, we influence others to be kind too, and
this produces an endless chain of effects, a circle of kindness.”

 Reading an uplifting book

Reading an inspirational book is
one spiritual activity that will help us
get more connected with our soul.
Karen Swallow Prior has said,
“What good literature can do and does
do—far greater than any importation of
morality—is touch the human soul.”
“Deep reading is a distinctive
cognitive activity that contributes to our
ability to empathize with others. It,
therefore, can, in fact, make us smarter and nicer, among other things.”
  Silence
“It is easy to fill our minds and
days from when we wake up until we
go to bed. Usually, most of our doings
are pre-planned. The problem with this
is that we need space and silence to
create an opening for inspiration, for
guidance and for something new to
happen. The silence gives space for the
universe to provide in extraordinary
ways that we could not have imagined.”
“Practicing silence doesn’t mean keeping your mouth shut and being quiet. It’s a state of
mind where we can listen and appreciate the sounds of silence, seek the solace that silence
streams and rejoice with silence.” Silence allows us to see our strengths and weaknesses, thus
allowing us to connect with our inner selves.

 Letting go
Most people find it hard to let go
especially if they have become too attached
to someone or something – whether it’s a
relationship, material things, or probably a
goal or ambition. However, we should
realize that everything in this world keeps
on changing, and it is very important to let
go if we think that something is not working
anymore.
“The call to let go lies at the core of
humanity’s many spiritual traditions. Non-attachment to outcomes, surrendering desires,
accepting the present, opening to the guidance of a higher power, relinquishing the ego,
forgiveness—they all entail a letting go.
 Why is letting go so important? Holding on limits perception, makes us tense, and
obscures our true nature. Moreover, it lies at the root of most our suffering. Letting go, on the
other hand, brings relief, ease, joy, and love.”

 Prayer
“Prayer is one of the main ways we practice our
spirituality. It is an effort to communicate with the
Creator, a Higher Power, and God, or to an object of
worship.
“Prayers are very powerful. Our prayers are one
of our natural healing resources each one of us can use
today, any time of the day. The medicine of prayer is a
good way to maintain good health.
“Prayers usually offer praise, thanks, make a
request, or simply express one’s thoughts and emotions to help us be in harmony, balance, and
peace. It can be done in many ways. “Prayers can be said out loud, quietly, through song,
dance, art, tears, and smudge, for example. You can also pray in any position: lying down,
sitting, and kneeling, with hands folded, raised, opened, and closed, and so on.
“When a person is truly in their spiritual self, in prayer, they do not focus on their body,
mind, and emotions. In a total spiritual state, people do not feel pain, heat, cold, hunger,
thirst.”

 Yoga, T’ai Chi, and similar disciplined practices

“There are five types of yoga, each
representing a major path of spiritual
development. In western society, hatha yoga
especially (physical exercises and postures),
also t’ai chi and martial arts like judo, karate
and taekwondo are increasingly popular.
These martial skills combine exercise and the
sport of combat techniques with a philosophy
emphasizing meditation and self-defense. These practices are therefore both disciplined and
devotional.”

 Chanting
“Chanting helps quiet the mind. While
chant may or may not be appreciated by
those listening for musical sophistication or
high-performance quality, countless people
are today chanting and listening to chant for
its profound effect on our consciousness.
The repetitive sounds of chant vibrate
in our brain, again and again, washing our
minds, our own inner wavelengths gradually
coming into resonance with the tone and feeling of the musical prayer.
Not only is chanting a form of meditation in itself, but chant is also an extremely useful
adjunct to other spiritual practices. Because of its powerful ability to calm the mind, chanting
can serve as a helpful bridge between our busy lives of work, kids, errands, telephones, etc.
and deeper states of meditation.”
 Conclusion:
You may have all the things that you need in this world – food, shelter, money, and all
of those material things – however, you should not forget that practicing spirituality and
performing these spiritual activities for self-care is also essential to your well-being. These will
help you on your journey to nourish your soul and improve your emotional and mental health.

Kindly watch this video after the lesson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xum35-XplNY
 References

https://www.goldencarers.com/30-spiritual-activity-ideas/6332/

https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/what-spirituality

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/docs/default-source/members/sigTs/spirituality-spsig/what-is-
spirituality-maya-spencer-x.pdf?sfvrsn=f28df052_2#:~:text=Spirituality%20involves%20the
%20recognition%20of,cosmic%20or%20divine%20in%20nature.&text=An%20opening%20of
%20the%20heart%20is%20an%20essential%20aspect%20of%20true%20spirituality .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xum35-XplNY
 Do This

ACTIVITY 7. ESSAY
Directions: Provide your personal reflection on the following spiritual questions. Have at least
50 words on each question. Rubrics for scoring shall be given by your instructor.(Equivalent to
10 points each)
 Am I a good person?

________________________
____________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________.

 What is the meaning of my suffering?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
 What is my connection to the world around me?

____________________________________________________________.

 Do things happen for a reason?

 How can I live my life in the best way possible?

____________________________________________________________.
LEARNING MODULE 6: Occupational Safety and Health: Prevention of Alcohol and
Drug Abuse in the Maritime Sector
Topics
6. 1. Occupational Safety and Health
6.2. Nature and extent of Alcohol and Drug Problem
6.3. Prevention and policies of alcohol and drug abuse in the Maritime
sector

Course Outcomes and Learning Outcomes

Course Outcome/s:
 Increase awareness on the nature and extent of alcohol and drug problems in the
workplace or in the maritime sector and the preventive measures and policies to address
such problems.

Learning Outcomes: The students are expected to:

1. Define occupational safety and health.
2. Analyze situations on board which make a seafarer vulnerable to substance abuse.
3. State the tolerable limits of alcohol consumption among men and women and
describe a person who is alcoholic.
4. Classify substances in terms of uses and effects to include medical use,
psychological dependence, usual method of administration.
5. Describe a person who is drug dependent and cite specific examples of drug
related problems on board.
6. Familiarize various strategies, approaches and describe the levels of prevention
to address alcohol and drug- related problems.
7. Characterize the role of the different sector entities involved in the prevention of
alcohol and drug abuse among seafarers.
 Overview

Seafaring is international in nature and the shipping industry has become increasingly
conscious of the impact that drug and alcohol use can have on operations. Special conditions
that increase the need for action to limit drug and alcohol use that put health and safety at risk
includes: ships act as both workplace and home; maritime population requires geographic
mobility; mixed cultures, customs and languages; limited social interaction with non-maritime
personnel on board or ashore; limited health facilities; long and often irregular working hours;
high variability in ownership and management of ships, hiring practices and work conditions;
and significant variations in national laws, regulations and enforcement standards. The health of
seafarers is not only a major concern of seafarers themselves but also a primary concern of the
shipowner/operator/manager. With approximately 80% of maritime accidents caused by human
error, 4 sickness and injury benefits represent a growing proportion of the shipping industry’s
third-party liability insurance claims.
There is an increasing recognition by shipowners, seafarers' union, and society in
general that alcohol and drug abuse is a social problem which must be faced squarely with
understanding and with positive, constructive action. One such positive approach is to
establish a program aimed at motivating seafarers who have alcohol/drug problems to seek
assistance voluntarily and maximize their well-being and capacity. Basically, it starts with the
seafarer's awareness of the nature and extent of the problem particularly in his own work
environment although the extent of the problem is worldwide, and it affects all countries,
occupations, and industrial sectors.
 Prevention measures can be very effective in informing the seafarers about the risks
posed by alcohol and drugs and encouraging them to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Prevention
consists of information, education and training, self-assessment, and health promotion
activities.

Discussion

6. .1. Occupational Safety and Health

Definition:

 Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), also known as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH),
refers to the generic practice of addressing and reducing potential safety and health risks to
employees. This can cover anything from risk assessment, injury prevention, work-life balance,
safety protocols, workplace hazards, to compensation and benefits, and employee management.
– Safety Culture
 Occupational health and safety are the areas of public health that focus on illness and injury
trends in the workplace. Experts in the field use this knowledge to develop and implement
strategies and regulations aimed at limiting hazards that could lead to physical or mental harm
now or in the future. -Very Well Health
 Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) standards refer to the Occupational Safety and Health
Standards issued by the Secretary of Labor and Employment pursuant to Articles 168 and 171,
Chapter 2, Title I of Book Four of Presidential Decree No. 442, as amended, otherwise known as
the Labor Code of the Philippines.
 Occupational safety and health refer to the measures and practices implemented in workplaces
to ensure the physical, mental, and social well-being of workers, as well as the prevention of
work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law | RA No. 11058

Republic Act No. 11058. An Act Strengthening Compliance With Occupational Safety and Health
Standards and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof
Approved on August 17, 2018
Coverage:
 all establishments, project sites, including PEZA establishments.
 all other places where work is being undertaken in all branches of economic
activity.
 EXCEPTION: Public Sector
Duties of Employers
 furnish the workers a place of employment free from hazardous conditions that
are causing or are likely to cause death, illness, or physical harm to the workers.
  give complete job safety instructions or orientation to all the workers especially
to those entering the job for the first time, including those relating to
familiarization with their work environment.
 require all workers to undergo a mandatory eight (8) hours safety and health
seminar as required by the DOLE.
 inform the workers of the hazards associated with their work, health risks
involved or to which they are exposed to, preventive measures to eliminate or
minimize the risks, and steps to be taken in cases of emergency.
 use only approved devices and equipment for the workplace.
 comply with OSH standards including training, medical examination and, where
necessary, provision of protective and safety devices such as personal protective
equipment (PPE) and machine guards.
 allow workers and their safety and health representatives to participate actively
in the process of organizing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the safety
and health program to improve safety and health in the workplace.
 provide, where necessary, for measures to deal with emergencies and accidents
including first aid arrangements.
 install safety signage and devices in prominent positions at strategic locations to
warn the workers and the public of the hazards in the workplace.
 create and implement an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) program.
 organize an OSH Committee to ensure that the safety and health program is
observed and enforced.
 designate a Safety Officer to ensure that a safety and health program is duly
followed and observed.
 have qualified occupational health personnel such as physicians, nurses, certified
first-aiders and dentists duly complemented with the required medical supplies,
equipment, and facilities.
 submit all safety and health reports and notifications prescribed by the DOLE.
 require all safety and health personnel to undergo the mandatory training on
basic occupational safety and health for safety officers as prescribed by the
DOLE; and
 establish a welfare facility in order to ensure humane working conditions with
adequate supply of safe drinking water, sanitary and washing facilities, and
suitable living accommodations for workers, as may be applicable.
Duties of Workers
 participate in ensuring compliance with OSH standards in the workplace.
 make proper use of all safeguards and safety devices furnished for the worker's
protection and that of others, and shall observe instructions to prevent accidents
or imminent danger situations in the workplace; and
 observe the prescribed steps to be taken in cases of emergency.
  report to the supervisor any work hazard that may be discovered in the
workplace.
Duties of Other Persons (builder/contractor who visits, builds, or renovates, other persons)
 comply with the provisions of this Act and all other regulations issued by the
Labor Secretary
 collaborate in the application of OSH standards.
Rights of Workers
 right to be informed by the employer about all types of hazards in the workplace
and to be provided access to training and education on chemical safety, electrical
safety, mechanical safety and ergonomically safety.
 right to refuse unsafe work without threat or reprisal from the employer if, as
determined by the DOLE, an imminent danger situation exists in the workplace
that may result in illness, injury or death, and corrective actions to eliminate the
danger have not been undertaken by the employer.
 right to report accidents, dangerous occurrences, and hazards to the employer,
to DOLE, and other concerned government agencies.
 right to personal protective equipment (for the eyes, hands and feet, and lifeline,
safety belt or harness, gas or dust respirators or masks, and protective shields
whenever necessary by reason of the hazardous work process or environment,
chemical, radiological, mechanical, and other irritants or hazards capable of
causing injury or impairment through absorption, inhalation or physical contact;
PPE must be provided FREE OF CHARGE.
Prohibited Acts
 willful failure or refusal to comply with required OSH standards or with a
compliance order issued by the Labor Secretary -->
 ADMINISTRATIVE FINE of P100,000.00 per day until violation is
corrected.
 aids, conceals or facilities willful noncompliance including:
 repeated obstruction, delay or refusal to provide Labor Secretary or
representatives access to covered workplace, or to relevant records and
documents.
 misrepresentation in relation to compliance with OSH standards.
 making retaliatory measures.
 ADMINISTRATIVE FINE of P100,000.00 (maximum) in addition to daily
fine above.

6.2. Nature and extent of Alcohol and Drug Problem

1.Shipboard Setting as a Workplace

The ship is like a small community which exists and operates by itself. The ship's crew work in a
world of their own during a voyage. In command of the vessel is the master manner/captain
assisted by officers and ratings assigned to the:

a) Deck department - in-charge of navigation or the safe conduct of the vessel from port to
port under varying weather conditions

b) Engine department - in-charge of machine operations. auxiliary engines. electricity, air

conditioning and water system onboard

c)Steward department - in-charge of sanitation and food service providing daily sustenance to
crew.

The vessel is both a home and a workplace for the members of the crew. The special nature of
the Shipboard Job is characterized by its vulnerability to maritime disasters resulting to
considerable loss of life and property at sea.

KEY FACTORS IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY

 A Unique Workplace
 Demanding Work Environment
 Social Isolation
 Mixed Social/Ethnic/ Cultural Environment & Customs
 Job Insecurity
 Short-term Work Contracts
 Limited Health Promotion
 Frequent changes in Vessel Ownership
 Flag- state Legislation Enforcement Standards
 Noise, Dust, Climatic etc. Stressors

SPECIAL NATURE OF MARITIME WORK

Shipboard employment differs from employment in an industry based ashore like

factories, government offices, or business and commercial concerns. The shipping company
comprises a few numbers of small mobile industrial units (the ship) which may at any moment
be distributed over large distances throughout the world, compared to a shore industry which
operates in a fixed location. When making a voyage, the ship can undergo considerable climatic
change, which can affect personnel behavior onboard. The ship is operating in a hostile
environment and must cope with extreme conditions of weather. The personnel operating the
ship will be subject to other hazards upon the concentration of machinery and equipment in
confined spaces.

On the other hand, the shore industry is operating under relatively stable conditions,
personnel being located reasonably close to their work and having all the facilities and
resources of modern society available to them.
 The shipping industry may have difficulty in recruiting suitable people for a career at sea,
and with a wide use of foreign flag registries and crewing agencies may met many difficulties in
obtaining crews of the proper calibre, qualifications, and experience.

Ships are operational for 24 hours a day, and the crew must be organized in a regulated
shift system for the whole 24 hours while the ship is in operational service.

Source: IMO Model Course 1.21

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS TO ALCOHOL & DRUG ABUSE AMONG SEAFARERS

 pressure/stress
 boredom and repetition
 too much time away from home
 long hours
 job fatigue
 shift work
 heat, cold, noise
 Climatic variations
 Types of vessels/cargoes
 Different nationalities/ culture of shipmates
 Access to supply market
 Financial reasons

In short, the job environment of the seafarers, his personal habits as well as his
values and behavioral pattern makes him vulnerable to substance abuse.

ALCOHOL AND ALCOHOLISM

The technical name of the drug in alcoholic beverages is ethenol, or ethyl alcohol;
popularly, it is known simply as alcohol. There are millions of users of alcohol in the whole
world; most users rarely, if ever, cause trouble to themselves or others. Alcoholics are
individuals who’s drinking seriously impairs their life adjustments. The ever-increasing
financial drain imposed on the economy by alcoholism comprises losses to industry from
absenteeism, lower work efficiency/productivity, accidents, higher insurance cost and higher
health care cost. The effect of all this on the consumers is the high prices of goods and
services available in the market.

To the alcoholic, this would mean reduced income and high cost of treatment. Experts
say that the life span of an average alcoholic is 12 years shorter than that of the average
non-alcoholic, in addition contributing to a greater incidence of accidents in industry and in
the home, alcohol has been implicated as a causal factor in most vehicular accidents.
Alcohol now ranks as the third major cause of death in the United States, next to heart
 disease and cancer. Generally, the abuse of alcohol has killed more people, sent more
victims to hospitals, generated more police arrests, broken up more marriages and homes
and cost the industry more.

The risk alcoholism brings to the maritime industry is much higher because it would
mean loss of life and property at sea.

The Roman poet, Horace, once wrote about the psychological effects of wine. “It
discloses secrets; ratifies and confirms our hopes; thrusts the coward forth to battle; eases
the anxious mind of its burthen; instructs in arts. Whom has not a cheerful glass made
eloquent! Whom not quite free and easy from pirching poverty ."

On the other hand, a Japanese proverb says, "First the man takes a drink, then the drink
takes a drink, and then the drink takes the man.'

Thus, the ILO slogan, 'Drink less live better!" and so,' Count your drinks.'

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION PATTERNS

It used to be thought that a small group of heavy drinkers was responsible for all the social
and economic costs of alcohol abuse which must be borne by society, family members, co-
workers, and the individuals themselves. Figure 1 illustrates the early conception of drinking
patterns, which placed the blame on a small group of heavy drinkers and absolved most of
the population from responsibility.

Figure 1. Hypothetical distribution of alcoholics and normal drinkers, as distinct

group

The per capita consumption of alcohol and drugs in each society is the strongest
predictor of the number and type of injuries related to substance abuse which will occur in that
society. A doubling of the per capita consumption could indicate a three to fourfold increase in
the number of individuals who are drinking at a level which is dangerous to themselves and
others. Ono of the basic conditions for creating a better life and improving living conditions for
every member of society is to keep the total national consumption of alcohol at a reasonable
level. It goes without saying that every effort should be made to keep the illicit use of drugs
down to the minimum. This is a task for policy makers through the implementation of supply
reduction strategies designed to keep drugs away from people. But supply reduction is not
sufficient to keep substance abuse under control. In recent years a stronger focus has been on
complementing supply reduction efforts with demand reduction programmes designed to Keep
people away from drugs This commitment has to be part of a comprehensive strategy for re-
establishing social values in a "human resource" philosophy. The fields of action are in
community itself and in the workplace,

To plan effective prevention strategies, it is necessary to be aware of the characteristic

drinking patterns of individuals across categories of age and sex. In most cultures there is a
rapid increase in the quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption between the ages 13 – 17.
Between 18 - 40 most people reach their highest intake levels, and, in some countries, the
heaviest drinking is in the age group '40 - 60, Drinking patterns tend to change and
consumption generally goes down around the age of 50. Young people usually have fewer
drinking days per week or month than older people, but they consume more on those occasions
and drinking frequently ends up in a state of intoxication. Older people seem to drink less on
each drinking occasion, but they drink on a more regular basis. Dependency is a product of
drinking patterns throughout life. The figure below illustrates typical lifetime consumption
patterns for men and women.

Figure 2. typical profiles of alcohol consumption for individuals be age and sex.
 It is generally agreed that a permissive attitude towards substance abuse in the workplace
has strong influence on the workers' use of alcohol and drugs in their free time. Conversely, the
general level of permissiveness in society influences the availability of dependency-creating
substances and the degree to which they are accepted at the workplace. More research is
needed into the relationship between social attitudes and workplace behavior and the role
played by the interactions between them in defining the general standard of permissiveness in
each community.

Drinking Patterns and Levels of Risk

The various effects of alcohol use can be distinguished in relation to the following drinking
patterns:

 social drinking
 hazardous drinking,
 which increases the level of risk for individuals and their families.
 harmful drinking. which has manifest medical and social consequences.

Hazardous drinking

A WHO memorandum recommends the term hazardous drinking to refer to that

level of alcohol consumption or pattern of drinking that should it persist, is likely to result in
harm to the drinker.

Harmful drinking

Harmful drinking is defined as alcohol use that has already resulted in adverse
mental or physical effects.

The aim of this terminology is to provide clinicians and researchers with guidelines for
the identification of individuals at risk who may not meet the criteria for alcohol dependence.
This effort reflects a growing awareness of the potential for adverse consequences associated
with what has often been referred to as social or moderate drinking.

The results of harmful drinking include:

 the frequent state of intoxication drinking bouts.

 the physical deterioration caused by a high intake of alcohol on a regular basis.
 the social and personal consequences of dependency

Most people who use alcohol experience problems in one or more of these areas, either
occasionally or frequently. In fact, there is some reason to believe that one fifth of all men will
develop some kind of alcohol-related problem during their life.
Standards Unit of Alcohol

In 1987 the World Health Organization (WHO) carried out a study on harmful drinking. It
was concluded that men drinking more than 21 units of alcohol per week and women drinking
more than 14 units per week had a significantly increased the risk of medical complications,
social problems, and increasing dependency.

The findings of the WHO study do not necessarily mean that drinking below this level carries no
risk; it is necessary to impose certain conditions on drinking habits as well as to respect
consumption limits. However, there is still no guarantee of “safe drinking.” We can only say that
the risk is reduced by drinking less and by reducing the number of drinking days per week or
month. The slogan is: “Drink less- live better.”

Apart from the state of intoxication, the harmful effects of alcohol have been called post-
alcohol impairment syndrome. The effects which are relevant to work performance are:

- Reaction time (responses are slower)

- Motor performance (clumsy movements and poor coordination)
- Sight (blurred vision)
- Mood (aggression or depression)
- Learning and memory (loss of concentration)
- Intellectual performance (impairment of logical thinking)

A worker suffering from post- alcoholism impairment would be unable to cope with a high-risk
situation and might endanger co- workers and damage equipment.

Alcohol Tolerance in Men and Women

Women generally have a lower balance for alcohol than men of the same body weight.
This is mainly due to a different ratio between body mass and muscle, and body fluid and fat,
which leads to a higher concentration of alcohol in the blood in women. Women also have less
of the enzymes which metabolize alcohol in the stomach wall. The effect is that most of the
alcohol intake in women takes place in the small intestine, leading to a rapid increase in blood
alcohol concentration. A woman drinking the same amount of alcohol as a man of identical
weight develops a higher concentration of alcohol in the blood, has a longer contact time
between the alcohol consumed and the different organs and a higher risk of all types of alcohol-
related injury and damage.

The number of female drinkers in the general population is increasing in many parts of
the world. In some countries women's drinking at the workplace has caught up with men’s
drinking, possibly because women are working in the same conditions as men. Females start
drinking at an earlier age than in the past and they often imitate male drinking behavior. The
rising number of alcohol/drug-dependent women is reflected in the rapidly deteriorating living
conditions of many families and the neglect of young children. The use of alcohol and drugs
during pregnancy is particularly harmful and every effort must be made to prevent women from
using dependency creating substances when they are expecting a child.

Heavy drinkers are more vulnerable to alcohol- related problems in the workplace than
moderate or non- drinkers.

How much is too much?

The definition of “safe” drinking is still debatable. A project carried out in 1987 by WHO on the
early detection of problem drinking concluded that an intake of 21 units of alcohol a week for
men and 14 units a week for women would represent some risk of medical or social problems.
The finding indicates that a mean alcohol consumption above 21 units a week for men and
above 144 units a week for women would represent a high risk of injury or damage.
Unfortunately, this information could be misinterpreted by the public as meaning that is safe to
drink up to these levels. If the general population acted on this belief the annual total
consumption of alcohol in many societies would rise and the incidence of alcohol- related
problems would also go up. This is another aspect of the prevention paradox which has already
been described.
Despite the controversy about dangerous levels of drinking and the fact that individual reactions
to alcohol vary widely, prevention campaigns must specify the alcohol intake that people can
safely assume to represent low risk. Studies on problem drinkers who reduced their intake have
documented a positive behavior change in men who reduced their consumption below 14 units
of alcohol a week, if they had at least three days a week without alcohol and that they did not
consume more than 4 units on drinking days. In view of the gender difference in tolerance for
alcohol women should keep their intake below 9 units a week. Women should consume no
alcohol at all during pregnancy. In summary, then

MEN WOMEN

HIGH RISK INTAKE 21 units 12 units

LOW RISK INTAKE 14 units 9 units

On three conditions: At least three days a week without alcohol; no more than four units
on drinking days; never during pregnancy or while at work or driving.

The critical question is: "How much is too much? In relation to drugs the simple answer
is to use no illicit substances at all and to take medical drugs strictly according to the
prescription. Alcohol is also a drug The only difference between alcohol and other dependency-
creating substances is that alcohol is legal and easily available in most parts of the world, and
that attitudes towards alcohol are changing in cultures traditionally banning its use.

Many attempts have been made over the years to decide how much is too much. Studies
have already been carried out in a medical context to determine the level of consumption that is
likely to lead to physical damage or mental illness. For example. high risk drinking was
considered for many years to be at an intake level of 60 grams of alcohol a day (5 units)
because drinking above that level was associated with an increased incidence of liver damage,
usually cirrhosis. It is now generally accepted that this level is far too high, and that the liver
has a greater tolerance for alcohol than family and friends. To minimize the risks of damage to
the social network, we now recommend that men should drink less than 14 units of alcohol a
week and that women should drink no more than 9.

Early Indicators of Alcohol Abuse

- Heavy drinker. often has 4 or more drinks/day (60g ethanol)

- Increased tolerance to alcohol
- Drinks quickly, gulps the first drinks.
- Eat lightly or skip meals when drinking.
- Concern or worry about drinking by self and/or family.
- Intellectual impairment
 - Accidents where alcohol was involved.
- Tardiness/absenteeism from work due to drinking
- Most friends are heavy drinkers.
- Most leisure activities involve drinking.
- Frequent use of alcohol to relieve stress, anxiety, depression.
- Has attempted to cut down on drinking with limited success.

Classic Signs of Alcoholism

- Very heavy drinker, often has 9 or more drinks/day (120 g ethanol)

- Morning drinker
- Blackouts. memory lapses when drinking
- Impaired control over alcohol consumption, craving for more Compulsive drinking style.
frequently thinks about drinking.
- Experiences severe alcohol withdrawal reaction
- Repeated attempts to cut down on drinking have failed.
- Gross cognitive deficits (e.g., alcohol amnesia)
- Social degeneration - lost job, family problems, legal convictions related to drinking.

DRUGS AND DRUG DEPENDENCE

Proper Use of Drugs

The term drug abuse is difficult to define. In general, the term seems to imply the use
of drug for other than its assigned purposes. However, the concept of assigned purpose is
vague. Does it refer to use only in medicine. or to use only according to a doctor's prescription?
Would one then mean that all uses of drugs for other than the treatment of medically
diagnosed disorders is abuse of drugs? Are there no legitimate uses of drugs for recreational
pursuits, for relaxation, for experience, or for temporary escape from reality? The history of
man's use of psychoactive drugs (including alcohol) clearly indicates that there is such a role for
psychoactive drugs and that it is not usually considered to be drug abuse. As our society
becomes more crowded, more polluted, more frustrated, and more angry, psychoactive drugs
may become an acceptable form of recreation, relaxation, or escape, in the absence of any
better alternative— and if the use of drugs is not the only alternative. The alternatives should
be developed now, before psychoactive drugs do become the only alternative. Our experiences
with alcohol pose a dim future for a society whose form of escapes becomes drug oriented.

Drug use, however, has been the prime recreational alternative for those whose
geographic situation or economic status do not allow them enough room to live ln. Drugs help
one to tolerate confinement when one is unable to escape. When no other alternatives are
available, drugs provide the only effective means of altering one's mood or achieving altered
states of consciousness, changes that are normal, not abnormal human desires.
DRUG MISUSE

To avoid the emotion and imprecision of the term drug abuse, a new concept of the
use of psychoactive drugs IS presented in Table I.

Table I Uses of Psychoactive drugs

Medical

1. Treatment or prevention of diagnosed disease

2. Alleviation of physical or mental discomfort

Recreational

1. Relief from anxiety

2. Achievement of a state of disinhibition or euphoria
3. Achievement of altered states of consciousness
4. Expansion of creative abilities
5. Attempts to gain interpersonal or external insights.
6. Escape from uncomfortable or oppressive surroundings
7. Experience of altered states of mood

This concept is intended to illustrate that legitimate uses of drugs are not all
necessarily medical in origin and that the use cannot be dictated by law. The concept accepts
obvious and recognizes that there is legitimate use of drugs for recreation and as a means of
experiencing altered states of consciousness. In Table I two broad categories of legitimate use
of psychoactive drugs are proposed: medical and recreational. Medically legitimate are uses of
psychoactive drugs in the treatment or prevention of diagnosed diseases or the alleviation of
altered states of mood of consciousness, relief from anxiety, induction of euphoria or escape
from uncomfortable or oppressive circumstances.

Drug misuse, then. may be described as the use of any drug (legal or illegal) for
a medical or recreational purpose when other alternatives are available, practical, or warranted,
or where drug use endangers either the user or others around him. In medicine. drug misuse
would apply to the seeking prescribing or using of any drug for any purpose other than the
prevention or treatment of diagnosed disease or the alleviation of physical or mental
discomfort- A physician's prescribing a mild sedative hypnotic tranquilizer for a patient merely
because the patient requested the drug or to be drug misuse. The misuse of a drug that may
property be used for recreational purposes occurs when the use or the drug impedes an
individual's development outside the use of drug, when the use of the drugs results in the
preoccupation with drug use. or when the use of drug endangers the physical or mental health
of the individual or of those around him.
WHY DO WORKERS ABUSE DRUGS?

Unfortunately, as many of us can appreciate, there are few worrisome or

frustrating in the workplace than having to work with someone who is abusing or addicted to
Illegal drugs or is an alcoholic. When their work performance suffers, it reflects on others and
affects the company. It can create a safety problem, a morale problem, and an air of tension or
hostility. And it is worse when the affected employee is close to you - your supervisor, a friend,
even a family member.

Before you can help them, however, it is important to examine the roots of the
problem. No one sets out to be a chronic drug abuser. an addict, or an alcoholic. Often the use
of drugs and alcohol is a way to mask or cope with other problems.

Below are some reasons why people in your workplace may abuse alcohol and/or drugs:

- An escape from family problems – marital, parents, and children’s problems often
cause pain, depression, and / or stress.
- An escape from financial problems – the employee may feel there is no answer,
nowhere to go for help.
- As a reaction to a job, they do not fit – people in your workplace may be in “over
their heads” in their new jobs, or conversely, bored, and unchallenged by their old jobs-
feeling they can handle the job with its perceived lack of responsibility even while “high”
or with hangover.
- As a job performance enhancer – they may actually think they are helping their
employer by taking drugs .. that they have more energy, drive, and creativity with
cocaine or amphetamines in their system. That the demands of their jobs require the
chemical stimulation to jump start their performance after long days and hard work
- To cope with the stress of work – frequently employees feel the need to relieve the
high stress levels they have from their jobs. The “Wall Street syndrome” of constant
tension, little relief, and big deals in a matter of seconds, is not exclusive to Wall Street.
It can affect employees in diverse job settings.

Again, employees may feel they are helping the employer by taking barbiturates or
other drugs or alcohol to calm down and remain steady. Of course, they are not.

Employees also may abuse drugs and alcohol:

- To fit in with peers

- To make money by selling
- To make a statement as a form of protest, act of courage, or to impress others.
- Out of ignorance, such as not knowing the dangers, thinking they can handle it, or not
thinking it affects their work.
- To treat their own maladies with self- prescribed medical cures or pain relievers
The bottom line is “people take illicit drugs and / or abuse alcohol to feel better and
to do better.”

The roots of the problem are often much more complicated than the symptoms. In
fact. A major reason why chronic alcohol and drug abusers often revert-to their old habits is
because the real reasons for the abuse are ignored. Most employees who abuse drugs have
very real problems. problems that they do not know how to confront head-on, so they try to
escape by using drugs and alcohol.

That is why the more sophisticated employee assistance programs - those which
probe into and address the less evident but more basic causes of substance abuse are the
ones that are going to be the most effective in rehabilitation and most successful in
returning drug-free employees to the job. In short, they treat the problems, not the
symptoms.

•Source: The Employee Drug Education Bulletin published by the Foundation for
Drug Education and Awareness.

For diagnostic purposes it has now become irrelevant to distinguish between

alcoholics and drug addicts as most people with some degree of alcohol dependency also
use mood-reflecting drugs, while drug addicts often use alcohol as a support during a drug-
free period. The psychological and behavioral mechanisms of drug addiction are quite like
those that occur to alcoholism.

Drug dependence can take various forms:

a. Physical Addiction

In physical addiction the body develops a craving drug. Withdrawal symptoms occur
when the drug is withheld and some of the symptoms are physically visible in the form of
excessive sweating, constant desire for liquids, scratching, twitching of muscle, irritability,
diarrhea, muscle spasm and in extreme cases, convulsions, coma and death. When physical
addiction occurs, the body requires progressively larger doses of the drug to achieve the same
level of intoxication or “high.” The quicker this increase is noticed the higher the body tolerance
is said to be.

b. Psychological Addiction

In this case the mind develops a dependence on the drug although there may be no
physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms are not as pronounced as in physical addiction but
there may still be irritability, fits of uncontrolled anger, fixation on taking a further dosage,
imitational behavior, feelings of victimization etc.

c. Environmental Addiction
 This can occur where the addict becomes accustomed to a particular lifestyle. Social
meeting places (e.g., opium den, “hippy squat”, “housewives”, coffee morning, school
playground. Etc.) have been conducive to environmental addiction. If drugs circulate in this
environment, the addict has a ready source and the “pusher” a ready market. There are no
social divisions or classes of drug users. They may be found in all walks of life and at all social
levels.

The drug user generally lies about his habit and keeps it secret. Wives may not be aware of
their husband’s addiction. Crew members may not, therefore, notice a drug user among their
fellows.

In a closed community, such as exists in a ship’s crew, there may be a strong bond of group
loyalty which may result in an unwillingness to believe the worst about a colleague. Drug
abusers and drug traffickers are aware of this and will, if suspicions are aroused, seek to take
advantage of it.

USE OF ILLEGAL/LLLICIT DRUGS

A. Definitions

- Illicit drugs: There are five categories of illicit drugs: narcotics, stimulants,
depressant(sedatives), hallucinogens, and cannabis. These categories include many
drugs legally produced and prescribed by doctors as well as those illegally produced and
sold outside medical channels.
- Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) is the common hemp plant, provides hallucinogens with
some sedative properties, and includes marijuana (pot, Acapulco gold, grass, reefer),
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, Marinol), hashish (hash), and hashish oil (hash oil).
- Coca (Erythroxylon coca) is a bush, and the leaves contain the stimulant cocaine. Coca
is not to be confused with cocoa which comes from cacao seeds and is used in making
chocolate, cocoa, and cocoa butter.
- Cocaine is a stimulant derived from the leaves of the coca bush.
- Depressants (sedatives) are that reduce tension and anxiety and include chloral
hydrate, barbiturates (Amytal, Nembutal, Seconal, phenobarbital), benzodiazepines
(Librium, Valium), methaqualone (Quaalude), glutethimide (driden), and others (Equanil,
Placidyl, Valmid).
- Drugs are any chemical substances that cause a physical, mental, emotional, or
behavioral change in an individual.
 - Drug and Alcohol Abuse repeated or episodic self-administration to the extent of
experiencing harm from its effects, or from the social or economic consequences of its
use.
- Drug and Alcohol Dependence is the state of needing or depending on something or
someone for support or to function or survive. As applied to alcohol and other drugs,
needing repeated doses of the drug to feel good or to avoid feeling bad.
- Drug and Alcohol Related Problems. Any of the whole range of adverse effects of
drinking or drug taking. "Related" does not necessarily imply causality. The term can be
used either regarding an individual drinker or at a societal level. Alcohol and drug
related problems may be taken to include both dependence and abuse but also covers
other adverse effects not related to abuse or dependence.
- Hallucinogens are drugs that affect sensation, thinking. sew-awareness. and emotion,
Hallucinogens include LSD (acid, microdot). mescaline and peyote (buttons, cactus).
amphetamine variants (PMA, STP), phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust. hog), phencyclidine
analogues (PCE. TCP), and others (psilocybin, psilocyn).
- Hashish is the resinous exudate of the cannabis or hemp plant (Cannabis sativa).
- Heroin is a semisynthetic derivative of morphine.
- Marijuana is the dried leaves of the cannabis or hemp plant (Cannabis sativa).
- Narcotics are drugs that relieve pain. often induce sleep and refer to opium. opium
derivatives, and synthetic substitutes. Natural narcotics include opium (paregoric.
parepectolin), morphine (MS-Contin, Roxaol). codeine (Tylenol with codeine, Empirin w/
codeine, Robitussin A-C), and thebaine. Semi synthetic narcotics include heroin (horse.
smack), and hydromorphone (Dilaudid). Synthetic narcotics include meperidine or
Pethidine (Demerol. Mepergan), methadone (Dolophine), and others (Darvon, Lomotil).
- Opium is a milky exudate of the incised, unripe seedpod of the opium poppy.
- Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) is the source for many natural ard semisynthetic
narcotics.
- Poppy straw concentrate is the alkaloid derived from the mature dried opium poppy.
- Qat (kat, khat) is a stimulant from the buds or leaves of Catha Edulis that is chewed or
drunk as tea.
- Stimulants are drugs that relieve mild depression, increase energy, and include
cocaine (coke, snow, crack), amphetamines (Desoxyn, Dexedrine). phenmetrazine
(Preludin), methylphenidate (Ritalin), and others (Cylert, Sanorex, Tenuate).

B. Classification of Drugs

Cardinal Signs of Drug Dependence

 Nine cardinal signs point toward drug dependence, and the diagnosis is made if three
or more of these signs are present. Each sign essentially serves as a marker that loss of control
has occurred.

1. The substance is taken in larger amounts or over longer periods of time than originally
intended.

2. Attempts to reduce use of the substance are made, but they are unsuccessful.

3.Considerable time is spent on activities that are necessary to acquire the drug.

4.Intoxication or withdrawal symptoms occur during times when they are hazardous, or when
they interfere with everyday responsibilities.

5. Important activities are given up obtaining and use drugs.

6. Drug use continues despite the development of psychological, social, or physical problems
that are caused or aggravated by drug use.

7. Tolerance occurs, and greater amounts of the drugs are taken to achieve the same effect.

8. Withdrawal symptoms occur upon abrupt discontinuation of the drug. Remember that this is
not the case with all drugs of abuse, as described earlier.

9. The person resumes regular drug use, even after stopping the drug and having experienced
serious adverse consequences because of its use.

The most useful Indicators linked to declining work performance are as follows:

1. Absence from work

- frequent absences, especially after the weekend or payday.

- frequent Sick leaves. especially after the weekend.
- unexplained absences.
- bad timekeeping.
- frequent Visits to dentists. doctors, or clinics:
- frequent breaks from work to go to the toilet, smoke. speak to colleagues. etc3.

2. Work Experience

- deterioration in the standard of work.

- reduced output.
- increased the number of mistakes and errors of judgment.
 - loss of Interest:
- failure to meet deadlines:
- accidents

3. Habits and moods:

- avoiding supervisors.
- blaming others for mistakes.
- bad relations with co-workers and managers.
- irritability and nervousness.
- excessive mood changes.
- slovenly dress and appearance.
- using expressions and mannerisms from the drug culture.

The signs and symptoms of developing illness related to substance abuse are also useful
in the detection of problems at an early stage. The following symptoms are particularly
relevant:

- bloodshot eyes
- abnormal skin vascularization:
- tremor of the tongue.
- hand tremor,
- nicotine stains.
- stomach problems such as gastritis:
- high blood pressure.
- palpitations.
- reduce muscle performance.
- low back pain.
- hypertension.
- sleep disorders.

Drugs Physical Psychologica Duratio Methods of use Possible Withdrawal

dependenc l n of effects syndrome
e dependence effects
(hours)

Narcotics Opium High High 3-6 hrs. Oral/ smoked. Euphoria Watery eyes,
Morphine High High for all Oral/ injected Drowsiness, runny nose,
Codeine Heroin Moderate Moderate Injected/ respiratory yawning, loss
High High sniffed. depression, of appetite,
Sniffed/ smoked constricted irritability,
pupils, tremors,
nausea panic, chills
 and
sweating,
cramps,
nausea
Depressants Barbiturates High- High- 1-16 Oral/ injected Slurred Anxiety,
moderate moderate speech, insomnia,
Benzodiazepine Low Low 4-8 Oral/ injected disorientation tremors,
s Moderate Moderate 4-6 Oral drunken delirium,
Alcohol Moderate Moderate 4-8 Oral/ injected behavior convulsions,
Other without odor possible
depressants of alcohol death
Stimulants Cocaine Possible High 1-2 Sniffed/ Increase Apathy, long
Amphetamines Possible High 2-4 injected. alertness, periods of
Oral/ Injected excitation, sleep,
euphoria, irritability,
increased depression,
pulse rate disorientatio
and blood n
pressure,
insomnia, loss
of appetite
Hallucinogen LSD None Degree 8-12 Oral Illusions and Withdrawal
s unknown hallucinations syndrome
, poor not reported
perception of
time and
distance
Cannabis Marijuana Degree Moderate 2- 4 Smoked/ oral Euphoria, Insomnia,
Hashish unknown relaxed hyperactivity
Hashish oil inhibitions, and
increased decreases
appetite, appetite
disoriented occasionally
behavior reported

6.3. Prevention and policies of alcohol and drug abuse in the Maritime sector

1. Self-assessment

1.1 Reflection/Introspection
It is probably to anyone's advantage to give a little thought to alcohol use. How do use
alcohol? What are your attitudes toward drinking? How do you feel about drunkenness? Is it OK
in some circumstances; if so, where is the dividing line? At what point is it offensive? Are you
uncomfortable riding in a car when the driver has been drinking? Do you believe wholeheartedly
that alcoholism is a disease, like pneumonia or arthritis, or does it seem somehow different? if
so, what is different? Alcohol is all around us, most people drink, the majority moderately and
without problems-and drinking is for most a largely unconscious, unconsidered behavior Yet it is
this very fact that in part contributes to the atmosphere that is conducive to alcohol problems.

How might you begin to think about alcohol? One way is to look at how you use alcohol.
Is it to celebrate, relax, go to sleep, turn off worries, let loose? In what settings do you typically
drink: at home, out in the town, on special occasions, with meals, with particular people, as part
of your job? How much do you spend on alcohol during a week? Are there any notable
exceptions? Are any circumstances likely to result in a problem if you drink, such as medical
conditions, medications, driving after imbibing? Are you at special risk for developing alcoholism-
family history, culturally (e. g., being a drinker from a tee-totaling family)? How would others
describe your drinking?
Another method for really looking at your use of alcohol is to pick a time, a week or two.
and not drink. Conduct this little experiment without telling anyone. What are occasions during
that period when you would otherwise naturally have a drink? Are there particular times when
not drinking seems like at least "a beat of drag' and using alcohol would be nicer than not? Does
anyone comment on your not drinking? Are there particular occasions or persons who don’t
accept an off- handed “No. thanks” at a dink offer? Are there any occasions when getting
something non-alcoholic is a real accomplishment. Further, if you're out somewhere, how much
are you charged for the cola or the tonic with a twist of lemon?

There’s more to it, of course, than yourself. Drinking behavior and drinking problems
occur in a climate that we all help create for one another. How do you serve alcoholic beverages
in your home? Is serving drinks almost a must? How must energy do you devote to making sure
you have alcohol on hand? At gatherings or parties in your home, is it common or rare for people
to become drunk? How do you handle that?
Is there someone in your life whose drinking should be of concern?

An emerging alcohol problem is sometimes hard to spot. So, consider for a moment those
closest to you.
If you don’t routinely have a well-stocked bar, are there some people for whom you had
something you’d be sure you had something in hand? In a circle of people picking something to
do, is there someone who can be counted on to opt for the bar over the ice cream parlor
following the movie? Is there someone who regularly brings an extra bottle to ensure it doesn’t
run out, or would be the one to suggest going down to the package store to replenish the
supplies?

Is there someone who talks about drinking a lot, having been here, there, somewhere
else, really "tying one on." or commenting because some places didn't serve drinks, or the
wedding reception only had a fruit punch?
Is there anyone whom you'd particularly notice if they said no to an offer of a drink?
Is there someone who really counts on a drink for something special (e.g., to unwind after a
hard day)?

What these questions are getting at is the relationship of the person to alcohol; is it
casual or central? How much organizing, whether conscious or unconscious, is going on to allow
or provide for the presence of alcohol? To use the analogy of friendship, alcohol can be a lovely
casual acquaintance, but it proves to be. over the long haul, a poor intimate friend.

If there is a person or persons who do come to mind as you reflect on these questions,
these shouldn't be taken as a definitive diagnosis of alcoholism. Besides, that's ultimately a
professional judgement. In fact, it is quite possible there is no alcohol problem. But these
behaviors could be fertile ground for one to develop. Think about it; in most of the instances
cited, other people's behavior doesn't challenge the drinking and can promote it.

To consider your part, how much accommodation do you make for drinking. whether your
own or someone else's? If a groovy fudge sundae makes your mouth water, after the movie are
you going to settle for a beer and munchies at the bar because of someone else's preference? Is
an essential ingredient of friendship being able to serve drinks? Is a bottle of wine with dinner
sufficient, or do you have to provide a full cocktail hour and after-dinner aperitifs routinely? Are
you willing to voice your views on alcohol use?

1.2. Assessment Tools

A. The CAGE questionnaire
Another instrument which has been developed for the early detection of problem drinkers
is the CAGE questionnaire. This consists of only four questions which have a positive predictive
value of over 80 per cent in the description of problem drinkers and self-referred alcoholics in
treatment centres. In the workplace situation it obviously does not have the same high predictive
value and would be useless as a screening instrument. Nevertheless, it could still be useful as a
case-finding instrument in high-risk groups. The most positive aspect of the CAGE instrument is
its simplicity and low cost. Two or more affirmative answers to the four questions it poses are
sufficient to identify 80 per cent of the problem drinkers in a high-risk population. The name
CAGE is an acronym formed from the initial of the key word in each question. The questions are
as follows:
1. Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?
2. Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt bed or Guilty about your drinking?
4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a
hangover (Eye-Opener)?

The CAGE questionnaire should be administered to personnel at high risk of developing

alcohol-related problems, and individuals whose deteriorating work performance could be the
result of heavy drinking,

The MAST questionnaire

One of the most widely used tests in the identification or description of problem drinkers in
western societies is the MAST questionnaire. The Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test has a short
version which is called the Brief Mast Questionnaire, and which consists of ten questions for self-
assessment or interview. The questionnaire is intended for secondary prevention efforts, targeted
at groups or individuals who have already been identified as being at risk. The answers to the
questions are either “yes" or “no”, but the values attributed to the responses vary from O - 5.
The values are indicated after each possible response and a total score of more than five
indicates problem drinking.
 1.3 Professional Service

A practical approach to the problem of alcoholism which has met with considerable success
is that of Alcoholics Anonymous. This organization was started in 1935 by two individuals, DC
Bob, and Bill W in Arkon, Ohio. Bill W recovered from alcoholism through a “fundamental spiritual
change." and immediately sought out Dr Bob, who, with his assistance, achieved recovery. Both,
in turn, began to help other alcoholics.
Alcoholics Anonymous operates primarily as a psychotherapeutic program in which both
person-to-person and group relationships are emphasized. Although A.A. is not affiliated with any
religious seed, spiritual development is a key aspect of its treatment approach. Meetings are
devoted partly to social activities but consist mainly of discussions of the participants' problems
with alcohol, often with testimonials from those who have recovered from alcoholism. Here, the
recovered member usually contrasts his life before he broke the habit with life now that he can
live without alcohol.
An important strength of AA is that it lifts the personal responsibility from shoulders of the
alcoholic by helping him realize that alcoholism, like many other problems, is bigger than he,
Henceforth, he need feel himself to be weak-willed or lacking in moral strength, but rather simply
unfortunate in that his particular affliction is that he cannot drink as other people may not be
able to tolerate certain types medication. Thus. by mutual help and reassurance through
participation in a group composed of others who have shared similar experiences, many an
alcoholic acquires insight into his problems, a new sense of purpose, greater ego strength, and
more effective coping techniques. And, Of course, continued participation in the group helps
prevent the crisis of a relapse.
As affiliated movement, Al-Anon Family Groups, has been established for the relatives of
alcoholics. By meeting together and sharing their common problems and experiences, the wives
or husbands of alcoholics are helped to better understand the nature of alcoholism, the effects of
the spouses' drinking upon them personally, and the best techniques for helping their alcoholic
mates, as well as themselves. They learn to understand, for example, the necessity of their
alcoholic spouses' attendance at AA. meetings several nights a week on a sustained basis if
relapses are to be prevented. They are also helped to see their mates in a less “drinking-wife” or
“drinking husband-oriented" perspective, and they are provided with suggestions for reasonable
courses of action. Finally, they are relieved from guilt feelings over being the causes of their
spouses' drinking; for they come to realize that many factors may contribute. In addition, it is
made clear that the initial choice of using alcohol as a coping mechanism lies with the individual.

An outgrowth of the Al-Anon movement has been the Ala-teen movement, designed to
help teenagers understand the drinking problems of their parents and find support in a group
setting.

If you wish to be in touch with a professional facility, in addition to AA or Al-Anon, what

might you consider? The optimum would be a special alcohol or chemical dependency program,
which may be affiliated with a hospital as a special unit or be a wholly separate agency. This is
an appropriate place for a family member to turn to help sort out what's going on. Such
programs are not only for alcoholics. The advantage of such a is that within one center there will
be a mix of professional staff whose special expertise is alcoholism, which should a full range of
services from inpatient to outpatient, for the alcoholic and family.

2. Levels of Prevention

2.1 Primary Prevention

Prevention programmes at the primary or awareness level are intended for those without
alcohol and drug problems. To KEEP GREEN PEOPLE GREEN, education and training programmes
are designed and implemented aimed at providing the seafarers with information on:
- the basic facts on alcohol and drugs and their effects on health.
- how alcohol and drugs affect society (shipboard, family and community).
- the drug user’s susceptibility to HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
- the danger and penalties involved in drug trafficking.
- special consideration in crossing national frontiers.
- the need for a company policy.
- the assistance/professional services available

Primary prevention programmes can be integrated in the curriculum of maritime schools

specifically in Psychology, Health and Physical Education and Social Science subjects in maritime
institution offering Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT).
 For merchant marine officers and ratings, primary prevention programmes are integrated
in upgrading courses or basic safety like Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) courses which are offered
in maritime training centers in compliance with regulations or resolutions of the International
Maritime Organization (IMO).

Shipping companies may also include a course on the prevention of alcohol and drug
abuse in their in-house training programmes. Likewise, agencies and training centers conducting
Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (POOS) may discuss the subject of departing contract
workers including seafarers.

In addition, the supervisors on board, particularly the senior officers, must be trained in
early signs and symptoms that might indicate substance abuse problems and influence work
performance and how to interact (intercept) in these situations. The supervisors are in a crucial
position to identify early stage of substance abuse problems in the workplace.

The most important function of the supervisor, however, is to monitor work performance;
they should not be trained to act as social workers or psychologists. The supervisors should be
made aware of the "kindness can kill" aspect of progressive substance dependencies.

This will put up new demands on the supervisor and his or her rotes. Supervisors were
traditionally recruited through their technical experience in production and not as much by
standards regarding their leadership skills.

The complexity of modem life, stress, substance abuse, family problems and broken
homes. etc., can very easily influence work performance. Therefore, the supervisors must be
trained to identify early stages of problems, how to communicate this to a colleague and how,
where, and when to refer him/her for further examination and advice.

Such skills must be attained through training seminars, and the use of videos, role plays.
etc. One should never jump to conclusions; loss of concentration and work experience can be
due to many other things apart from substance abuse!
 The supervisors should not be trained to be *bare foot" psychologists; their primary task
is to safeguard, supervise and monitor productivity. This means that too much attention or
involvement is given to one employee, will take time away from the quality of work functions of
other co-workers. On the other hand, waiting too long to react adequately can make referrals too
late. In this sense: KINDNESS CAN KILL!

The supervisor must be PREPARED (e.g., trained for the consultation (confrontation), put
forward his observations in a neutral/matter-of-fact context without losing temper.

Of imminent importance is assurance of compliance of follow-up on agreements made.

Indifference in this situation could be a "killer”. Remember that wo is talking about changing
adult behavior and relapses must be expected and met with appropriate techniques.
2.2 Secondary Prevention

Early Identification or alcohol and drug problem among seafarers and providing them
assistance will facilitate their RETURN FROM THE AMBER ZONE BACK TO THE GREEN ZONE. This
is the task of the occupational health services (OHS) of the human resource development
services (HRDS) of the organization. At the early stage of substance abuse, much can be
achieved through simple advice and follow-up sessions by professionals within or outside the
company. All the officers and ratings should know about these possibilities and even be referred
as soon as the problems are identified.

The levels of problems can be assessed using relatively Simple self-assessment

instruments like the AUDIT (Alcohol Disorder Identification Test, from WHO) in collaboration with
professional counselors or using clinical knowledge and experience related to encounters, health
check-ups and health certificates.

NOTE' On the level of primary and secondary prevention everything should be done to
safeguard the confidentiality aspect of excessive or early-stage problem drinking or drugging.
Lines of communication within the workplace, e.g., between supervisors, occupational health
staff, personnel and clients must be clearly defined and made known to all members of the
organization.

2.3 Tertiary Prevention

People in need of treatment or rehabilitation are the target beneficiary of the tertiary
prevention programmes which are designed to bring the life of an alcoholic or a drug addict back
to normal. It must be recognized that alcohol and drug dependency are treatable conditions,
provided that the individual fully cooperates.

The shipping company could facilitate access to counseling, treatment and rehabilitation
for seafarers found to be alcoholic or drug addicts. Tertiary prevention programmes are more
effective if the shipowner can assure the seaman that he will be re-employed upon successful
completion of a rehabilitation programme.
The loss of work of a dependent worker can result in a dramatic acceleration of problems
not only on the individual level but in the family system and society as well. Care must be taken
to find solutions that can bring the person through a process of change toward a WPR-whole
person recovery - journey.

This process can take some time and the risk of “slips” (relapses) is relatively high. The
policy document must address this situation and counseling should concentrate on relapses
prevention strategies.

Treatment and sick leave must be provided if this can bring the client into a better
prognosis of recovery. An analysis of the work conditions, work rotation possibilities,
interpersonal problems in the actual work-cell must be taken into consideration. A collaboration
with the primary health care and social services in the municipal and the occupational health
branch may be to secure this process of change.

3. Roles of Sectors/Entities Involved

Government
 In some countries legislation has been passed defining the rights of employers and
employees in the case of substance abuse. Where such legislation exists, its provision must be
integrated into the health, safety, and welfare policy of every company. Government action on
prevention can place the financial burden of running programmes and training courses wholly on
employers or it can place part of the burden on the unions. Unions may be obliged to participate
in building a national anti -substance abuse programmes at the workplace or they may be made
responsible for running training courses for safety delegates or union representatives. Some
governments regulate the provisions of Employee's Assistance Programmes on substance abuse
to ensure that certain basic rights are respected, such as:
 paying sick leave to employees with drug or alcohol problems who agree to undergo
treatment.
 protecting seniority and promotion prospects during and after treatment
 authorizing leave to attend outpatient clinic.
 providing financial assistance for treatment or family support.
It should be made perfectly clear that employees who agree to use the services that the
programmes offer will not be penalized in any way.

3.2 Seafarers' Union

The role of union leaders is to optimize the work environment for employees and thus
contribute to higher productivity. There should be no contradiction between the role of workers'
representatives and the establishment of a health, safety, and welfare culture in the company.
However, Union leaders should participate very actively in drawing up the company's policy
document on health, safety, and welfare, and in drafting the different action programmes to be
undertaken. These might include the prevention of substance abuse, prevention of HIV/AIDS,
promotion of safety at work and improvement of the work environment.

Workers' representatives are responsible for protecting the rights of employees by

contributing to the definition of company policy on dealing with drug/alcohol-related problems in
the workplace. The policy document must be made known to everyone in the organization and it
is essential in the training of supervisors, safety delegates and occupational health staff to ensure
that the rules laid down on the programmes ere respected. Union representatives are
traditionally most active when a worker is in danger of dismissal. If this situation is reached the
union must insist that the formal steps and rules specified in the agreed policy document have
been followed in this particular case.

3.3Shipping Companies

Basically, it is the concern of ship owners to have their vessels manned by healthy,
productive, and highly competent officers and ratings on board. However, because of short-term
work contracts it is difficult or even impossible to maintain the same people on board for a longer
period and it is much more difficult to ensure the availability of equally similarly competent
seafarers to readily replace those who need to disembark at a certain time. Shipowners should
likewise consider the scenario of losing ex crew for reason of substance abuse if no remedial or
preventive measures are carried out
Managers are a part of the company. It frequently happens that there are differences of
opinion and maybe conflicts of interest between management and the workforce, but the
establishment of a health, safety, and welfare culture within an organization helps employers and
employees move closer together to reach the goals of the whole company. Modem management
is now moving towards a philosophy of human resources development, even in countries with
high rates of unemployment. The capital, skills, and training invested in employees are so
valuable that a "hire and fire" attitude is no longer tenable.

The role of managers in establishing a prevention programme on substance abuse is not

limited to the economic and infrastructural levels of the programme; its most vital aspect is that
it signals coherence between the attitudes of managers and the ideals and goals of the
programme. Managers themselves are often at high risk of developing substance abuse and
should be invited to participate actively in the training courses initiated by the programme
director. It has been noticed that management tends to respond more positively when the
terminology used refers to health promotion rather than alcoholism and drug addiction.

Managers should ensure that the person responsible for the prevention programme has
the best possible working conditions and they should insist on a continuous evaluation of
activities and results. Prevention strategies need to be integrated into the company's own
philosophy on health, safety, and welfare which means that a programme developed in another
company cannot simply be imported and reproduced. Success will not be achieved unless
prevention activities become a part of the internal life of the organization. Professionals in the
field of prevention can advise and propose guidelines for company strategies, but these should
be adapted for the specific situation of the enterprises and its goals.

Managers should be aware of the conditions imposed by insurance companies on

compensation for work accidents. The claim may not succeed if the victim of the accident was
under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the injury was sustained. In this situation it may be
found that both the individual's private insurance and the employer's liability coverage are
invalid. A prevention programme can reduce the risk of such complications arising from accidents
in the workplace as well as reducing the number of accidents.

3.4 Manning Agencies

The role of the manning agency in the seafaring industry is widely recognized. They are
principally involved in the recruitment of competent and qualified seafarers for overseas
employment on board various ocean-going vessels owned by foreign principals worldwide. To
ensure that they get the right man to do the right job on board ship, some manning agencies
conduct pre-employment training in addition to the standard pre-departure orientation seminar
(PDOS). A short course on the prevention of substance abuse may be likewise conducted using
available resources or it may be integrated into general orientation sessions to reach a broader
audience.
Secondary and tertiary prevention cases may be helped by referring them to professional
services.

3.6 Senior and Junior Officers

The life of a seaman on board ship is often hard. rugged and lonely. The job needs some
kind of specialized skills requiring a high degree of proficiency/competence; the working area is
monotonous; the living quarter is small; the environment is limited amidst the vastness of the
ocean. Far from his home, family, and friends, he has no one to turn to whenever he has some
problems with himself or his shipmates. Boredom and loneliness often inevitably drive a seaman
to take alcohol or drugs.

Preventive measures are very necessary to avoid A & D related problems which may
reach uncontrollable limits if unchecked at an early stage. One of these measures could be
shipboard training on awareness which can be conducted by the ship officers who are
themselves trained on this. Information could be given regarding the risks involved and the
harmful effects of A & D on the job, ship, company, shipmates, and family. Other measures could
be taking alternatives to alcohol such as exercise, reading, videotapes, computers, yoga
meditation and relaxation.

Should treatment or rehabilitation be necessary, referrals could be facilitated if the

captain or the officers are informed of existing programs or services available for seafarers in
major parts. Cases could be referred through their shipping company, their seaman's union or
their governments.

3.6 Ratings
A training programme designed for ratings should primarily provide them with awareness
and understanding of the implications of substance abuse for fellow seafarers, their company,
country and family and the increased risk for accidents, job loss, AIDS, etc. More importantly,
more meaningful compliance or applicable laws, policies and regulations or alcohol and drug
should always be encouraged/enforced. Prevention requires positive action by everyone involved,
from the captain down to the last rating on board ship.

References:
 https://www.docenajularbal.com/post/osh-law
 Prevention of alcohol and drug abuse in the maritime sector – United Nations
International drug control programme
 Checkpoint

1.Which of the following best defines occupational safety and health?

a. The study of workplace design and layout
b. The prevention of work-related accidents and injuries
c. The promotion of work-life balance
d. The management of employee salaries and benefits
2. Why is occupational safety and health important in the workplace?
a. It increases employee productivity
b. It reduces healthcare costs for employers
c. It promotes a positive work culture
d. It ensures compliance with legal regulations
3. What are the main reason seafarers are susceptible to substance abuse?
a. Lack of access to medical facilities
b. High stress levels and isolation
c. Limited working hours
d. Strict regulations on substance use
4. Which of the following situations on board can contribute to seafarers' vulnerability to substance
abuse?
a. Regular safety drills and training sessions
b. Well-equipped recreational facilities
c. Inadequate rest periods
d. Strict monitoring of personal belongings
5. The tolerable limit of alcohol consumption for women is:
a. The same as for men
b. Half of the maximum limit for men
c. Double the maximum limit for men
d. Not specified by NIAAA
6. How does alcoholism differ from alcohol abuse?
a. Alcoholism is more severe than alcohol abuse
b. Alcoholism occurs only in men, while alcohol abuse occurs in women
c. Alcohol abuse is more common among college students
d. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are synonymous terms
7. Which of the following substances is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders?
a. Stimulants
b. Benzodiazepines
c. Antipsychotics
d. Diuretics
8. Which substance is commonly associated with the medical treatment of attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
a. Marijuana
b. Opioids
c. Antidepressants
d. Stimulants
9. Why is drug dependence considered a problem?
a. It leads to increased social interactions
b. It enhances cognitive abilities
c. It causes physical and psychological harm to the individual
d. It improves overall well-being
10. Which of the following statements best describes drug dependence?
a. A person who occasionally uses drugs for recreational purposes
b. A person who requires a drug to function normally and experiences withdrawal
symptoms without it
c. A person who uses drugs occasionally but can easily stop if desired
d. A person who has developed a tolerance to drugs and can take larger doses without side
effects.
11. Which of the following strategies is an example of primary prevention for alcohol and drug-
related problems?
a. Providing counseling and therapy for individuals with substance abuse disorders
b. Implementing educational programs to raise awareness about the risks of substance
abuse
c. Offering support groups for recovering addicts
d. Administering medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction

12. Which approach is an example of tertiary prevention for alcohol and drug-related problems?
a. Implementing community-based prevention programs
b. Conducting screening and brief interventions for individuals at risk of substance abuse
c. Providing job training and employment opportunities for individuals in recovery
d. Enforcing strict laws and regulations on the sale and distribution of drugs
13. What is the primary role of maritime unions in preventing alcohol and drug abuse among
seafarers?
a. Providing counseling services
b. Conducting random drug tests
c. Organizing awareness campaigns
d. Enforcing disciplinary actions
14. How do shipping companies contribute to the prevention of alcohol and drug abuse among
seafarers?
a. Offering treatment programs for addicted seafarers
b. Monitoring and controlling access to alcohol and drugs onboard
c. Collaborating with port authorities for inspections and enforcement
d. Conducting educational programs on the risks of substance abuse
15. Which level of prevention focuses on reducing the harm associated with alcohol and drug use?
a. Primary prevention
b. Secondary prevention
c. Tertiary prevention
d. Quaternary prevention