While most Americans are familiar with the concept of alcoholism – and may even make off-hand jokes about their own drinking habits on a night out – few truly comprehend how devastating this form of substance abuse can be on an individual, their friends and their family. As such, 27 years ago, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) established April as National Alcoholism Awareness Month – a time for communities to come together to educate one another about this addiction and combat the pervasive stigma that most alcoholics endure.
The theme of this year's Alcoholism Awareness Month, according to the NCADD website, is "Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow." The events taking place in communities across the country are intend to inform the general public that this form of substance abuse is indiscriminate, and that those battling it need and deserve compassion and support.
"We all have an investment in reducing the devastating impact that alcohol has on us as individuals, family members and members of our communities," said NCADD official Dr. David Lewis in a piece for the South Bend Tribune of Indiana. "We need to educate ourselves – as parents, teachers, clergy, employers, counselors, friends and neighbors – about the devastating power of alcoholism and the healing power of recovery."
An estimate 14 million Americans of all ages and backgrounds abuse alcohol to some degree, and for those working to overcome their addiction, every day is a struggle. If you know someone who can't control their consumption, consider consulting an alcohol interventionist. These professionals can help you draft and alcohol intervention letter and confront your loved one's abuse head on. At Intervention Services, we also provide the long-term support your family needs throughout the recovery process.