Table 1 Categorization of reasons for not seeking treatment and matching of reasons reported in the present study to Saunders' theoretical framework
Saunders’ framework | Present study | |
|---|---|---|
Reasons related to the four steps of treatment seeking | Broader category | Subcategories |
Denial of the problem | Lack of problem awareness | Drinking was no problem |
No help needed | ||
Normal consumption | ||
Consumption under control | ||
Nothing serious, no problem insight | ||
Minimization of problem severity, rationalization | Other problem | Other problem was more prominent |
Other substance problem was more prominent | ||
Cope alone | Acknowledgement of problem but not of its severity | |
Self-change, problem resolution without professional help, non-professional help | Cope alone | Wish to cope alone |
Reduction in drinking | ||
Non-professional support | ||
Encounter insurmountable barriers; delay or avoid treatment, ongoing self-change efforts | Stigma or shame | Fear of stigma and shame |
Social pressure | ||
Drinking is private issue | ||
Encounter barriers | Lack of possibility or knowledge | |
Lack of time | ||
Asked for help but did not get any | ||
Treatment was not affordable | ||
Wish not to stop drinking | ||
Treatment was not seen as an option | ||
No trust in treatment system | ||
The help needed was not offered | ||