Every year, the National Council for Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) advertises a nationwide campaign called Alcohol Awareness Month. Throughout April, we challenge drinkers and nondrinkers to think about their attitude toward alcohol. National Alcohol Awareness Month aims to reduce the number of people suffering from Alcohol Addiction through public events and personal challenges.
What Is Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction is a medical condition that affects one’s ability to limit or stop drinking. People with Alcohol Addiction may be physically dependent on the substance. Over time, excessive drinking can even alter brain function.
People with Alcohol Addiction may find that their drinking interferes with their job, family or social responsibilities. They may also show behavioral and physical signs of addiction, including:
- Intense cravings for alcohol
- Abandoning typical hobbies or interests to drink
- Spending excessive money on alcohol
- Continuing to drink regardless of known health issues
- Unsuccessful attempts to quit
- Withdrawal symptoms from stopping for a brief period
At 7 Summit Pathways, we know it can feel like there’s no escape from Alcohol Addiction. Alcohol is a large part of our society’s cultural norms, and some people misuse it for years without realizing it. During Alcohol Awareness Month, everybody has an opportunity to examine their alcohol use and follow up with professional help if need be.
What Is Alcohol Awareness Month?
National Alcohol Awareness Month aims to change current attitudes about excessive or underage drinking. It’s estimated that over 14.5 million people older than 12 have Alcohol Addiction. With trends like binge drinking among teens and college students, it’s our responsibility to discuss the dangers of alcohol — even with those not legally allowed to drink.
NCADD encourages people across the country to recognize the scope of alcoholism and what we can do to fix it. Underage drinking and excessive misuse of alcohol can create devastating effects for users and their loved ones. During Alcohol Awareness Month, parents, students, businesses and community members can engage in a conversation about seeking and offering help for Alcohol Addiction.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved in Alcohol Awareness Month, including local, state and national events sponsored by NCADD. With more people joining the conversation, we can see greater outcomes and protect loved ones from addiction.
One of the best ways to get involved this April is through NCADD’s Alcohol-Free Weekend. Participants choose not to drink alcohol from Friday to Monday. This challenge asks people to observe the effects of their dry weekend.
Over a weekend of not drinking, people with Alcohol Addiction may experience physical or mental withdrawal symptoms like nausea, cravings or headaches. If you find a dry weekend difficult, NCADD recommends talking to someone about it. At 7 Summit Pathways, we offer holistic, personalized care to help you begin a long-term Recovery journey.
Contact 7 Summit Pathways for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
In the spirit of Alcohol Awareness Month, remember there is no shame in getting the help you deserve. Recovery is a lifelong solution for those struggling with Alcohol Addiction. At 7 Summit Pathways, you are not alone in your journey. We offer personalized treatment plans and a vast support network to help you reach new goals. With the tools to take back your life from addiction, you can begin a happier, healthier life of sobriety.
Take action this April to start your path to Recovery. When you’re ready, we’ll be here for you. Contact us online or make an appointment to learn more!