Wellness Wednesday: Raising the Curtain on Alcohol Awareness Month

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Approximately 178,000 individuals pass away annually due to heavy alcohol consumption, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to the CDC, approximately two-thirds of alcohol-induced fatalities result from long-term health issues such as various forms of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, hepatic disorders, and Alcohol Use Disorder.

One-third of alcohol-associated fatalities stem from binge drinking, which involves consuming excessive amounts of alcohol during a single session. These incidents can lead to various outcomes such as fatal traffic accidents, alcohol-facilitated drug overdose cases, instances of alcohol poisoning, and suicides.

To celebrate Alcohol Awareness Month, here are six strategies to prevent alcohol from becoming an issue for you or those close to you:

1. Exhibit empathy: Communicate openly and straightforwardly with family members regarding their drinking habits. Keep in mind that alcoholism is an illness which convinces you that it isn’t really an ailment. The path to recovery may be solitary at times. It’s important to acknowledge even the smallest achievements—whether they're yours or another person's—as these modest triumphs can evolve into significant advancements over time.
2. Grasp the concept of alcoholism: Learn about how drinking can affect you, and discuss this topic with those around you. If you're a parent, have conversations with your children regarding the risks associated with alcohol and drugs.
3. Limit your alcohol consumption: If you’re considering making a change to your drinking habits, you should first decide whether you want to cut down or quit altogether. It helps if you discuss different options with a healthcare professional, friend or someone else you trust.
4. Stay occupied in a productive way: Get active by exercising or find enjoyment by learning a new skill or hobby that doesn’t involve alcohol.
5. Minimize temptation: Limit the amount of time you spend at bars or other venues that serve alcohol. Try engaging in social outings and events that don’t center around or encourage drinking.
6. Reach out for further assistance when necessary: Engage with qualified healthcare providers for guidance, information, structured therapy choices, and counseling services.

If you or anyone you know is battling an addiction, assistance can be found. Reach out by calling the Samhsa (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information.**

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