April is Alcohol Awareness Month

The National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence has named April Alcohol Awareness Month. 2013 marks the 27th year that the NCADD has run this program which seeks to increase public awareness and understanding aimed at reducing the stigma that too often prevents individuals and families from seeking help.

Myths and Facts about Substance Use Disorder

As part of the effort, the NCADD is working to dispel myths and stereotypes of those with substance use disorder by disseminating information that addresses the facts about this pervasive disorder.

As NCADD states:

“More than 18 million individuals or 8.5% of Americans suffer from alcohol-use disorders….Alcoholism places an enormous emotional, physical and financial burden on family members and children of the person who is addicted to alcohol: 75% of domestic abuse is committed while one or both members are intoxicated and family members utilize health care twice as much as families without alcohol problems. Emotional and physical abuse often occurs as a result of parents or spouses losing control with family members because of alcohol. Drinking and driving causes 16,000 deaths per year, and thousands more injuries. Up to 75% of the crimes are committed by people under the influence of alcohol.”

Spread the Word About Alcohol Awareness Month

This year’s theme is “Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow.” Let’s all do whatever we can to spread the word about Alcohol Awareness Month, and perhaps spread some hope along the way.  NCADD President/CEO, Robert J. Lindsey says it best in the organization’s press release.

“Although the victims of alcohol-related problems number in the tens of millions, our ability to find solutions ultimately comes down to one thing and one thing only……One NCADD Affiliate, One organization, One person making a commitment to raising awareness of the problem and the solution in our family, our community, our church, our workplace through a focus on prevention, treatment and recovery!”

Cliffside Malibu is here to support you in your search for an alcohol-free life. To learn more about alcohol treatment at Cliffside Malibu, call (855) 403-5641.

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