Chapter 3: Seeking Care for Alcohol Problems

SUMMARY Alcohol dependence is a serious problem in the Mexican-origin population of the United States. While the magnitude of these problems is well documented, the use of services and their relative effectiveness in accessing and treating alcohol dependence have been inadequately studied. This paper describes patterns of care for alcohol disorders by examining the distribution of alcohol dependence and utilization rates, and identifying population characteristics that influence perceived need and receipt of treatment.