Impact of Alcoholism on Family Mental Health: A Community Psychology Study in Ballia District

Alcoholism is a pervasive public health challenge that significantly impacts not only individuals but also the mental health of their families. This study aimed to examine the psychological distress, coping strategies, stigma perception, and social support of family members of alcohol-dependent individuals in Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, within a community psychology framework. A total of 222 participants were selected through random sampling, ensuring representation of both rural and urban households. Data were collected through standardized tools, including the GHQ-28 and Coping Strategies Inventory, alongside structured in-person and online interviews. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequencies, and percentages) were used to summarize demographic and psychological variables. To test group differences, independent samples t-tests were applied, comparing male and female participants as well as rural and urban families. Findings revealed moderate to high levels of psychological distress among family members, with significantly higher distress reported in rural participants compared to their urban counterparts (t(220) = 2.61, p = 0.010). Families with treatment exposure displayed lower distress and greater use of problem-focused coping, while untreated families showed higher reliance on avoidance strategies. Rural families also perceived greater stigma but simultaneously reported stronger social support networks. These results underscore the dual role of community settings as sources of both vulnerability and resilience. The study highlights the need for family-centered interventions in clinical psychology and calls for integration of stigma-reduction strategies from TB management programs into alcohol rehabilitation services, particularly in rural contexts.