Charleston, WV – April is designated as Alcohol Awareness Month to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and help those struggling with addiction find support and treatment. Alcohol misuse is the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States, with over 178,000 people dying from alcohol-related causes each year, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
Research shows that even moderate alcohol consumption significantly contributes to at least seven types of cancer, yet at least half of US adults are unaware of this association. Additionally, alcohol use contributes to motor vehicle crashes, intimate partner violence, suicide, and of course, Alcohol Use Disorder.
Help4WV is West Virginia’s substance abuse and mental health helpline. Program Director Ann Hammond says people are often surprised to learn that among helpline callers, alcohol is the second most cited substance of abuse. Last year, 1140 helpline callers cited alcohol as their primary drug. The only drug category cited more frequently was opioids, mostly heroin or fentanyl. Hammond said, “Many people don’t take alcohol use as seriously as other drugs, yet it contributes to far more ER visits and deaths than opioids.”
If you have any of these signs of Alcohol Use Disorder, further screening is warranted.
- Drinking alone or in secret
- Drinking in the morning or at inappropriate times
- Drinking to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
- Drinking to the point of blacking out or passing out
- Increasing tolerance to alcohol
- Neglecting responsibilities and obligations
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences such as problems at work, in relationships, or with the law
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of alcohol, such as driving or unsafe sex
- Having physical symptoms of alcohol abuse, such as shaking, sweating, or withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Developing health problems related to alcohol abuse, such as liver disease or high blood pressure
Although treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder may include in-patient withdrawal management and residential treatment, many people can find recovery through lower-level intervention, including medication assistance, outpatient counseling, and support groups. If you or someone you know is struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder, free, confidential support is available by calling or texting 1-844-HELP-4WV or chatting online at HELP4WV.com.