April is Alcohol Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising understanding about alcohol misuse and its effects on individuals, families and communities.

It’s an opportunity to increase awareness of the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, recognize the signs of alcohol use disorder, and share resources for those in need.

Research shows that more than 178,000 people die each year of alcohol-related deaths in the United States, with more than 200 diseases and injuries linked to alcohol misuse. These cases may be prevented when we try to understand the impact of alcohol and how we can promote healthier lifestyles for ourselves and our loved ones.

The effects of alcohol on health
Drinking too much alcohol can cause significant harm to both our physical and mental well-being. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest that adults ages 21 and older)who choose to drink should do so in moderation.

Additionally, there is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to conceive, as it can lead to higher health risks for the developing fetus.

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver disease, high blood pressure, heart problems and an increased risk of certain cancers. It also plays a role in mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. Beyond individual health, alcohol misuse contributes to accidents, injuries and strained relationships.

How much alcohol is safe?
Understanding what constitutes a standard drink can help individuals monitor their alcohol intake, drink responsibly and stay within recommended limits:

• 12 ounces of beer
• 8 ounces of malt liquor
• 5 ounces of wine
• 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (such as vodka, tequila, gin, rum, whiskey, etc.)

Health experts recommend that those who choose to drink do so in moderation, which is considered:

• Men: No more than two drinks per day. Heavy drinking is defined as more than 14 drinks per week, or four per day.
• Women: No more than one drink per day. Heavy drinking is defined as more than seven drinks per week, or three per day.

However, for individuals with a family history of alcoholism or addiction or who have personal past struggles with addiction, avoiding alcohol altogether may be the safest option.

Recognizing excessive drinking and alcohol addiction
Excessive drinking includes binge drinking, heavy drinking and alcohol dependence. Some signs that can indicate a problem with alcohol use include:

• Drinking more or for longer than intended

• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop drinking
• Needing more alcohol to achieve the same previous effect
• Continuing to drink despite adverse physical or mental health consequences
• Spending large amounts of time drinking, thinking about drinking, or recovering from drinking
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as shakiness, sweating or irritability when not drinking

Alcohol use disorder, commonly known as alcoholism, is a chronic illness that affects millions of Americans. Alcohol use stimulates the brain’s pleasure centers, creating an association between drinking and feelings of relaxation or euphoria. Over time, this can lead to cravings and dependency, making it difficult to stop drinking despite the negative effects.

Alcohol addiction can begin with occasional drinking and then escalate due to various risk factors, such as:

• early exposure to alcohol
• family history of alcoholism
• stress and emotional struggles
• social or peer pressure
• difficulties with impulse control

As alcohol consumption increases, the body builds a tolerance, leading to the need to drink larger quantities to achieve the desired effects. When drinking is reduced or stopped, withdrawal symptoms may occur, reinforcing a cycle of dependence.

Alcohol addiction does not discriminate – it affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health , 28.9 million people aged 12 and older struggled with alcohol use disorders in the previous year – a significant increase from the previous survey in 2019.

Among adolescents ages 12 to 17, alcohol addiction was found to be more prevalent in females than males, whereas in adults, men were more likely to experience alcoholism than women. The severity of alcohol use disorders can range from mild to severe, but common symptoms include:

• strong urges or cravings to drink
• loss of control over drinking habits
• neglecting responsibilities due to alcohol use
• drinking in dangerous situations like driving
• experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

• lying about or hiding alcohol consumption

Beyond those directly struggling with addiction, alcohol misuse also impacts family members, friends and caregivers. Relationships, work performance and mental well-being can all suffer due to alcohol dependency.

Signs a child may be drinking
Per the 2023 national survey, an estimated 757,000 adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 are struggling with alcohol addiction in the United States. For children, warning signs may include sudden changes in behavior, rebelling against rules, poor concentration or memory lapses and association with peers who drink frequently. While some behavioral changes are part of growing up, additional signs can include:

• sudden shifts in mood or personality
• declining academic performance
• secrecy or lying about whereabouts
• smell of alcohol on breath or clothing
• loss of interest in hobbies or activities The federal Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration offers additional information on recognizing the signs of alcohol misuse, as well as advice for parents and caregivers on how to discuss alcohol-related concerns and find help.

Alcohol addiction is treatable. Distinct options are available, depending on an individual’s needs, including:

• counseling and therapy, such as individual or group sessions to address underlying issues.
• behavioral therapy, focusing on changing unhealthy drinking habits.
• medication-assisted treatment, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• residential treatment programs, providing structured, supportive environments to aid recovery.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use, seeking professional help can be a life-changing first step toward sobriety. Help is available, and recovery is possible. For more information and to find support, explore the resources below: ·

• SAMHSA’s National Helpline is free, confidential, and provides information and help 24/7 by calling 1-800-622-HELP (4357). ·
• FindTreatment.gov is a confidential and anonymous resource for anyone seeking treatment.
• Rethinking Drinking has information on how alcohol affects health, tools to help individuals change drinking habits, and more.
• The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism has additional science-based information on the impacts of alcohol on health and how to get help.