Alcohol Awareness Month

Alcohol Awareness Month: Raising Awareness and Encouraging Recovery

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, aimed at educating the public about alcohol misuse and its far-reaching effects on individuals, families, and communities. This month also serves as a time to challenge social norms and address barriers to treatment for those with alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Three Facts:

1. Alcohol-related deaths in the U.S., including accidents, liver disease, and poisoning, total over 95,000 annually, making it one of the top preventable causes of death.
2. Binge drinking remains a persistent issue, with 1 in 6 adults in the U.S. reporting heavy drinking episodes each month.
3. Early recovery and treatment options such as counseling, medication, and support groups are highly effective in helping individuals manage AUD.

How to Help:

1. Spread awareness about the risks of heavy drinking and the benefits of sobriety through social or educational campaigns.
2. Host or attend sober-friendly events that promote alcohol-free socializing.
3. Support local recovery programs by volunteering, donating, or helping a loved one find resources.

Three Resources:

1. NIAAA – Alcohol Awareness Month – Prevention and treatment tools.
2. SAMHSA Treatment Locator – Find nearby recovery programs.
3. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – Support for those in recovery from alcohol addiction.