Alcohol Awareness Month was created to educate others about alcohol addiction. Alcohol is accessible over the world and plays a vital role in many social gatherings. However, risky behaviors involving alcohol, such as drinking and driving, claim far too many lives. Over 80,000 people die each year because of alcohol-related situations.
Keep reading to find out what you should know about Alcohol Awareness Month, how you can get involved, and how Alcohol Awareness Month is making a difference.
Why Is Alcohol Awareness Month Relevant?
Alcohol Awareness Month was created by the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) to increase awareness and educate others about the dangers of alcohol consumption. Started in 1987, Alcohol Awareness Month initially targeted college students who overuse alcohol and binge drink. Unfortunately, alcohol continues to be a focal point of the college experience for many.
Since then, Alcohol Awareness Month continues to draw attention to alcohol concerns and how we as a society are dealing with them. Because alcohol is so widely used and abused, some individuals may underestimate the duration and/or amount of their consumption.
For the most part, alcohol is socially acceptable. However, millions of people take it to the next level and become psychologically and physically dependent on alcohol. Many have a tough time quitting without professional help. Increasing awareness of alcoholism is vital to help those who suffer from alcohol addiction find treatment.
Sobering Facts About Alcoholism
Even though alcohol has taken so many lives, people of all ages continue to drink regardless of the negative consequences. There are over 15 million people who currently struggle with alcoholism, and each year that number continues to rise.
According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 70% of people ages 18 and older said they drank in the past year and about 55% reported that they drank in the past month. Over 25% said they also engaged in binge drinking in the past month.
Those who find it difficult or uncomfortable to acknowledge how serious their alcohol use is becoming are encouraged to seek help. Alcohol Awareness Month provides a public forum to openly discuss and educate others about the dangers of alcoholism. The more people who participate, the more who can find a treatment facility to help them recover.
As part of Alcohol Awareness Month, there is an alcohol-free weekend held at the beginning of April. This weekend encourages individuals and groups to remain sober for 72 hours, so they can ask questions and seek help if need be. Sometimes, realizing how difficult it is to stay sober for just three days can be the wake-up call a person needs.
Another key element is quality communication, which includes providing accurate tools and resources that dispel the myths about alcoholism. By opening the door to discussing alcoholism honestly and communicating the dangers of alcohol abuse, we can make an impact in the right direction.
How Can You Get Involved With Alcohol Awareness Month?
The fastest and most effective way to get involved with Alcohol Awareness Month is by educating yourself and then spreading information about the dangers of alcohol consumption. This sounds simple enough, but it can help save many lives. From social media platforms to treatment facilities across the country, there is no shortage of information about alcohol’s current grip on our society.
It is also important to have a professional by your side if situations turn negative. A professional can discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and help you find the right type of treatment for you. Not seeking help can be deadly — an estimated 95,000 people die from alcohol-related causes each year, making alcohol the third-highest preventable cause of death in the United States.
You may want to take part in the 72-hour sober weekend and encourage others to do the same, especially anyone you are concerned about. Alcohol Awareness Month is an ideal time for those who suffer from alcoholism to realize that their consumption is out of control and they need help.
If you or someone in your life struggles with alcohol, Alcohol Awareness Month might be the right time to get involved by taking a free class on addiction and unhealthy habits at Renaissance Ranch. Our educators speak from personal experience and provide a variety of perspectives on substance abuse, including classes designed for the parents, spouse, and family members of those suffering.
The negative effects of alcohol use are taking a great toll on individuals and families. Consumption levels are at an all-time high, with approximately $200 billion spent on drinking-related activities each year. Alcoholism can have serious and life-altering consequences that many people do not understand or simply don’t want to acknowledge. If you or a loved one are struggling with alcoholism, please know that you are not alone. It may seem overwhelming to seek help, but Renaissance Ranch is here to guide you through the entire process. If you notice any signs of alcohol abuse, such as the inability to quit drinking or control consumption, emotional drinking, drinking while driving, or stashing alcohol, then you need to talk to us today. We’ll be here for you every step of the way. There’s never an inappropriate time to begin your journey of recovery. To learn more about Renaissance Ranch and our programs, contact our caring staff today at (801) 308-8898.