April is recognized as Alcohol Awareness Month in the United States. It is a public health awareness campaign sponsored by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) to increase awareness and understanding of alcoholism, its causes, effective treatment, and recovery.
The purpose of Alcohol Awareness Month is to educate people about the dangers of alcohol abuse and the importance of seeking help if they or someone they know is struggling with alcohol addiction. During this month, various organizations and community groups across the country organize events, workshops, and other activities to raise awareness and provide information about alcoholism.
Alcohol Awareness Month aims to reduce the stigma associated with alcohol addiction and encourage individuals and communities to take action to address alcohol abuse. It also serves as an opportunity to highlight the resources available for those seeking help and support, including treatment centers, support groups, and hotlines.
What’s the Big Deal? Alcohol Addiction Stats:
Alcohol addiction can have serious consequences, including death. Here are some statistics related to alcohol addiction deaths in the United States:
- In 2019, there were approximately 93,000 alcohol-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
- Alcohol-related deaths are the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States, after tobacco use and poor diet/physical inactivity.
- Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
- In addition to health problems, alcohol addiction can also lead to accidents, violence, and other harmful behaviors that can result in death.
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, 9,940 deaths were attributed to alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for approximately 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States.
It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction to prevent the risk of harm or death. There are many resources available, including support groups, treatment centers, and hotlines, that can provide assistance and support.
Alcohol Addiction and Binge Drinking in Teens
Alcohol addiction among teens is a serious concern. Here are some facts and statistics related to alcohol addiction among teenagers in the United States:
- According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), approximately 7.4 million young people aged 12-20 reported drinking alcohol in the past month in 2019.
- Among high school students, 29% reported drinking alcohol in the past month, and 14% reported binge drinking (consuming five or more drinks on a single occasion) in the past month, according to the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Research shows that the earlier a person starts drinking, the greater the likelihood of developing alcohol addiction later in life.
- Alcohol addiction can have serious consequences for teens, including impaired judgment, risky behavior, academic problems, and long-term health problems.
- According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2019, approximately 136,000 young people aged 12-17 received treatment for alcohol use disorder in the United States.
Prevention and early intervention are key in addressing alcohol addiction among teens. Parents, teachers, and healthcare providers can play a critical role in educating young people about the dangers of alcohol and providing support and resources for those who may be struggling with alcohol addiction. There are also many resources available, including counseling, support groups, and treatment programs, that can help young people overcome alcohol addiction.
Resources and More Information
Our team at Scottsdale Recovery and Detox Center understands addiction and has created a vast array of support services for those struggling with alcohol addiction and alcohol abuse. We are committed to serving our community as well as those nationwide and provide a safe space for recovery. Our team is a phone call away if you or a loved one are seeking support! Learn more by visiting scottsdalerecovery.com or call 1-888-NODRUGS.
That said, there are many resources available for individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction or seeking information and support. Here are some resources that may be helpful:
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) – The NIAAA is a federal organization that provides information, research, and resources related to alcohol abuse and addiction. Their website offers information on treatment options, publications, and support for individuals and families.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – AA is a 12-step program that provides support and resources for individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction. Meetings are held worldwide, and the program is free and open to anyone who wishes to attend.
- SAMHSA National Helpline – The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline that offers free, confidential support and information for individuals and families who are struggling with addiction. The helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- Women for Sobriety – Women for Sobriety is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources specifically for women who are struggling with addiction, including alcohol addiction. The organization offers in-person and online meetings, as well as resources and information on their website.
- National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) – The NCADD is a nonprofit organization that provides information, resources, and support for individuals and families who are struggling with addiction. Their website offers resources on treatment options, prevention, and recovery.
These are just a few examples of the many resources available for individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction or seeking information and support. It is important to find the resources that work best for your individual needs and circumstances.
