Alcohol Problems Take Spotlight During Awareness Month

Editor's note: The following press release was submitted by the Ozaukee County ATOD Prevention Consortium.

Before one more high school student dies in an alcohol-related accident, or another college student dies of alcohol poisoning, or another family breaks up because of alcohol, the seriousness of the public health problems associated with alcohol and alcoholism must be brought into focus through the spotlight of public awareness. Alcoholism is not a moral weakness, but a family disease that is treatable, from which people can and do recover.  In fact, millions of individuals and family members are living lives in long-term recovery from alcoholism!

April is the 27th Annual NCADD Alcohol Awareness Month. Founded and sponsored by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) for 27 years, the theme this year is: “Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow.” Alcohol-related problems and alcoholism affect each and every one of us, directly or indirectly, and are our nation’s number one public health problem. Alcohol is a drug that affects every cell and organ system in the body, affecting judgment, coordination and long-term health.

Addressing this issue requires a sustained and cooperative effort between parents, schools, colleges, community leaders, and our youth. There are four areas that have proven to be effective in prevention of this problem:

1. Curtailing the availability of alcohol to underage populations;
2. Consistent enforcement of existing laws and regulations regarding alcohol purchase;
3. Changing cultural misconceptions and behaviors about alcohol use through education; and
4. Expanded access to treatment and recovery support for adolescents and their families.

We have a responsibility to help youth to realize that alcohol is not necessary to enjoy activities or to show independence. An informed community is a healthy community. For information or assistance, please contact Starting Point of Ozaukee at 262-375-1110 or 262-284-3144, or visit our website at www.startingpointoz.org.

Sincerely,

Ozaukee County ATOD Prevention Consortium