The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence started Alcohol Awareness Month to help educate the public on alcohol addiction. It had an original intention to target college-aged students, but today it’s used to provide education to people of all ages. This Alcohol Awareness Month, find ways to give back to the community or reach out for help if you need it. Reach out to Georgia Addiction treatment Center to learn about alcohol addiction treatment and other addiction resources.
What Is the Importance of Alcohol Awareness Month?
Alcohol Awareness Month has many goals, but the primary focus is on identifying and exposing the stigma that still affects those struggling with substance use disorders and alcohol addiction. Among those with a substance use disorder, many struggle with denial of their symptoms. They might not realize how much they drink or that their drinking is having an impact on others.
This same denial may spread to family members and friends, which is problematic as they feel uncomfortable discussing how serious the situation has become.
These kinds of situations are what Alcohol Awareness Month tries to address by increasing education and support through local public health bodies, treatment facilities, and community centers.
What Happens During Alcohol Awareness Month?
During Alcohol Awareness Month, many organizations that are affiliated with the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence begin launching campaigns in their local areas. These campaigns, which are traditionally hosted on local media or social media, take place throughout the month of April each year.
The goal of the campaigns is to draw more attention to the causes of alcohol abuse and alcoholism. The campaigns also address the signs or symptoms of substance use disorders, so that those learning about them can better recognize these signs in themselves and others.
Education is a key component of Alcohol Awareness Month, so there is a strong focus on teaching people how to talk to their loved ones about alcoholism and drinking problems. In the case that they intervene or realize that they or a loved one needs treatment, these campaigns often offer treatment options and referrals.
What Can You Expect to See During Alcohol Awareness Month?
Throughout the month of April, you should expect to see advertisements, campaign materials, classes, and educational productions that discuss the signs and risks of alcohol addiction. The first week of Alcohol Awareness Month usually kicks off with the National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, which is a collaboration of educational events that take place all across the United States.
Does Alcohol Awareness Month Reach Children and Adolescents?
Usually, yes. Alcohol Awareness Month is an educational event, so many schools participate in educating children and teens about alcohol, the risks of alcohol addiction, and how alcohol can have a negative impact on their lives when misused.
Alcohol Awareness Month does address underage drinking as a problem in the country, and an alcohol screening tool is also used by medical professionals to help identify young patients who may have an alcohol dependence issue.
Alcohol Addiction Doesn’t Have to Be Stigmatized
Alcohol Awareness Month wants to help people better understand addiction and alcohol abuse so that the stigma of this disease can be eliminated. People who struggle with alcohol or substance use disorders deserve an opportunity to seek addiction treatment without feeling like they are bringing up a taboo subject.
Learn More at Georgia Addiction Treatment Center
At Georgia Addiction Treatment Center, we want you to know that we are here to help you with alcohol addiction or substance abuse. If you are struggling with alcohol abuse or know someone who is, we can give you more information to help you seek the treatment that works best for you or your loved one. Call us today at [Direct] or reach out online to learn more about the options there are to start treatment soon.
