Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in the US.
1-in-10 Americans over the age of 12 have Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
(nhd10.org & drugabusestatistics.org)
These alarming statistics shows us that there is an urgent need for an increase in accessible treatment and intervention for those struggling with alcohol dependency.
One of the biggest challenges we face in treating AUD is the stigma surrounding substance abuse as a whole. Many struggling addicts will choose the route of denial, or reject care due to feelings of judgement and shame. April is Alcohol Awareness Month and it is time to raise awareness, break the stigma, and protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of alcohol.
Excessive alcohol use has short-term and long-term effects on a person’s physical, mental and emotional health. Short-term threats include injuries, alcohol poisoning, impaired cognitive functioning and participation in risky behavior. Moreover, the long-term effects of alcohol abuse include cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, poor memory, and many other dangerous outcomes. (cdc.gov)
If you are looking for support for yourself, or someone in your life, please use the link below to find treatment near you:
See our next post for resources on Alcohol Awareness en Español.