The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence organized Alcohol Awareness Month as an effort to educate people about the dangers of alcoholism while attempting to reduce the stigma attached to it. Unfortunately, far too many people are unaware or in denial of the negative impacts that alcohol can have on their lives or their loved ones. Especially with young adults and underage children. With state and local aid and the help of parents, schools, and organizations like EAC Network, we can create a treatment and support system for individuals with alcohol-related problems and help them on the road to recovery.
Consequences of Alcohol Abuse
The impact of alcohol abuse can be devastating and costly to the individual, their family, and their communities. There are an estimated 15 million Americans that struggle with an alcohol use disorder, and only 10% of them receive treatments.
Alcohol awareness month calls attention to the risks associated with the misuse of alcohol. In addition, it points out how many people are affected by it, directly or indirectly, and how the help and support from their community can make a difference.
Nationwide Health Crisis
Sadly, alcohol abuse is a far-reaching issue, with more than 88,000 Americans dying annually from alcohol-related deaths. Alcohol awareness month serves as a harsh reminder of the possible long-term harm that excessive alcohol consumption can have on our health. Over time, drinking too much alcohol can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems. In addition, it increases the risk of breast, mouth, throat, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum cancers.
Economic Impact on Communities
Alcohol awareness month also brings to light the economic impact alcoholism can have on a community. For example, employers can be affected by turnover, absenteeism, or poor performance by employees who abuse alcohol. The general public then feels the cyclical effect of fewer people being employed, resulting in fewer people purchasing goods or services and paying taxes.
Healthcare costs for employers and community members are also impacted. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol use disorder has cost the country $27 billion in healthcare costs. This roughly breaks down to costing every American $807.00 a year.
Life Altering Repercussions
Excessive drinking often ends with a crime being committed or serious injury or loss of life. It is one thing to get arrested for public intoxication, it is another thing altogether to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking too much and possibly taking someone’s life as a result. In the United States alone, there are over 10,000 deaths a year as a result of drunk driving.
EAC Network’s Alcohol Education Program (AEP)
We recognize that many people need assistance with recovery, especially when their actions put others’ lives in jeopardy. For instance, our AEP program educates and treats first-time DUI offenders through a five-week, 12.5-hour program instead of a criminal conviction.
The goal is to create an action plan for these individuals to assist them in changing their behavior for the betterment and safety of themselves and their communities. If it is determined that the individuals need further treatment, they will be referred to the NY Office of Addiction Services and Supports.
The Message of Alcohol Awareness Month Needs to Last All Year Long
Alcohol awareness month is a stark reminder of the number of people struggling with alcoholism and how they need our help.
To learn more about EAC Network’s AEP program or other behavioral health programs like Treatment Alternatives for Safer Communities (TASC), contact us today!
