Alcohol, or more specifically alcohol use disorder can be a tricky subject to broach. While it’s unfortunately common and affects millions of people every year in the United States, there’s still so much stigma and misunderstanding surrounding it. That being said, April is Alcohol Awareness Month and a great chance to spoon away some of that stigma while educating yourself on alcohol abuse, resources and recovery options available. Research shows nearly 15 million Americans live with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), which illustrates just how prevalent this problem really is.
Why April is Alcohol Awareness Month and How It Can Help You
Here’s the good news: there is light at the end of the tunnel for those suffering from AUD due to plentiful support systems out there if you have access to them. And beyond that: mental health issues such as depression & anxiety are often co-occurring within prolonged periods of alcohol abuse – meaning getting sober can also help treat mental health problems/aid in stabilization of symptoms. Join us this April during Alcohol Awareness Month in raising awareness around this issue – let’s work together to put negative stigmas associated with alcohol abuse to bed and direct our energy towards recovery and helping others achieve the same.
April is a month of rebirth, growth, and, since 1987, Alcohol Awareness. That’s right, it’s time to pay attention to our alcohol use and how it affects our lives. This campaign aims to educate people on the risks of excessive drinking and provide resources for those who may need help. Alcohol misuse can lead to a plethora of health issues, like liver disease and increased risk of cancer, and it can also wreak havoc on our relationships and work life.
Awareness is about looking at your own drinking, but it’s also about changing the dialogue so that others who may have a drinking problem feel safe talking about it or even asking for help and that’s crucial. So, ultimately we want to have our awareness both inward-facing and outward-facing, looking at the world and people around us who we might be able to help.
Overcoming the Stigma of Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol use disorder aka alcoholism, has been heavily stigmatized for far too long. Many people have a preconceived notion of what alcohol addiction looks like — someone homeless, always drunk, and unable to function in society. Perhaps even worse, a lot of people are still clinging to the disproven old notion that alcohol addiction is just a matter of self-control and discipline.
That was blown out of the water by the disease concept of alcoholism, which the American Medical Association endorsed in 1956, by the way. So anyone still thinking that way is way, way behind the times. Let them know it! (in a positive and constructive way). It’s an opportunity for teaching and learning. The reality is very different. Alcohol abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or social status.
It’s crucial that we start talking more openly and honestly about the issue, without judgment or shame. Acknowledging and addressing alcohol abuse can be difficult, but it’s a vital step towards leading a healthier and happier life. With the right support and resources, overcoming the stigma of alcohol abuse is possible, and a more fulfilling future awaits.
Statistics that Show the Reality of Alcohol Abuse
Let’s get real about the stats surrounding alcohol abuse. It’s not just a problem for those with an obvious addiction – studies have shown that binge drinking on a regular basis can have serious consequences, too. Did you know that about 88,000 people die each year from alcohol-related causes in the U.S. alone? And it’s not just a matter of physical health – long-term alcohol abuse can lead to financial problems, relationship issues, and a host of other social problems. So next time you’re out with friends and considering ordering that next round, think about the bigger picture and make a responsible choice.
Mental Health and Dual Diagnosis – How to Know if You Need Professional Help
Mental health is something that needs to be taken seriously as well, and there’s nothing wrong with admitting you might need some professional help. We all have our ups and downs, but if you feel like you’re constantly stuck in a rut, and it’s affecting your day-to-day life, it might be time to seek some guidance.
Now, don’t get us wrong, it’s okay not to have everything figured out; nobody does. However, if you’re dealing with a dual diagnosis, you might need someone who has the expertise to help you navigate it all. Don’t be afraid to take the first step, ask for help, and take control of your mental health. You deserve it.
What to Expect in an Alcohol Rehab Facility Like Ours
If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you know might just be ready for an alcohol rehab facility. First off, good for you/them! Admitting there’s a problem is the first step in fixing it. But what can you expect once you’re there? Well, for starters, at a highly individualized program, like Transformations Care, different clients’ days will look different. What’s consistent though is structure, support and people who legit care about the outcome and want to see you get sober and stay that way.
Days are structured, with individual sessions, group therapy, and some wellness and physical activity thrown in. Honestly, routine can be kinda comforting when everything else feels out of control. Most people settle in nicely. You also may be surprised at how much you enjoy connecting with the other people here – both other clients and our staff. We’ve got a great vibe here that will be evident to you the moment you walk through our doors. Bottom line, alcohol rehab is nothing to be afraid of. The stuff that happens when you don’t get treatment for alcohol addiction though? Way scarier.
Don’t Let Alcohol Addiction Take It All Away – We Can Help
Alcohol abuse can be both harmful and life-threatening, and it’s important to take steps toward recovery as soon as possible. April is an especially important month for promoting alcohol awareness both to those individuals suffering from an addiction and those watching out for loved ones who may need help.
In addition to advocating for the dismantling of stigma associated with alcoholism, there are many resources available to increase one’s awareness. This includes knowing the statistics of alcohol abuse, recognizing signs of a dual diagnosis, knowing where to find help, and lastly being informed on what to expect while in rehab. Through education and understanding we can further support others in their journey of recovery this April and long beyond that.If there’s anything Transformations Care can do to help you or someone you love with an alcohol, drug, mental health issue or all 3, give us a call. That’s what we’re here for. We’re about helping and we can help you too, promise. Here’s that number: (424) 339-0965 Dial it, don’t file it.