The Origins of Alcohol Awareness Month
The effects of alcohol use are well-known and information about alcohol in general is easily accessible. So why would we need to have a month dedicated to alcohol awareness? It is because of a few factors. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) clearly states that the purpose is to “help reduce the stigma so often associated with alcoholism by encouraging communities to reach out to the American public each April with information about alcohol, alcoholism and recovery.” Their estimate that 20 million people and their families are in recovery is a very important reason why we need to acknowledge the causes, effects, and possible recovery from alcoholism.
Alcohol Awareness month was started in 1987 by the NCADD. Some ways in which the NCADD and other institutions like the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion spread awareness is through social media, getting involved in community-sponsored alcohol awareness activities through public schools and local police stations, and developing online topic areas for information sharing.
However, alcohol awareness in itself dates back over 100 years. The temperance movement in the 1800s was an attempt to brand alcohol consumption as a public health concern. Then there was prohibition in the 1920’s after years of demonstrations and strict laws. These were unsuccessful as they didn’t focus on the right tools: education and proper intervention. Since then, we have had numerous ways to prevent the harmful effects of alcohol while also providing education to children in the forms of D.A.R.E. and the “Know your limits” campaign. These have helped with lowering the number of deaths, but there are still many things we as a nation can do to provide helpful awareness campaigns and strategies to prevent alcoholism
At Lifeline Connections, we really care about your recovery. That is why we provide customized care with a one-on-one recovery coach. We understand that everyone has a different background and that some will need outpatient care while others need inpatient care. If you want to understand what you will need to fully recover and live a clean and happy life, please call or email us with your questions or concerns. We are here to help!
Phone: 360-397-8246 ext. 7580
Email: admissions@lifelineconnections.org
