An estimated 88,000 people (approximately 62,000 men and 26,000 women) die from alcohol-related causes annually, making alcohol the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States.
Accidents and illnesses such as pancreatitis, cancer, heart disease and cirrhosis of the liver account for many of these deaths. Another lesser-known cause is suicide; the risk of people taking their own lives is higher among people with severe alcohol use disorder than in the general population. In fact, up to seven percent of those with severe alcohol use die by suicide each year.
To combat the prevalence of disease and death, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) established Alcohol Awareness Month in 1987. The continuing mission is to increase awareness and decrease the stigma so often associated with alcohol use disorders.
This year’s theme is “Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow.” Local, state, and national events will be held throughout the month. Each will be aimed at educating people about the treatment and prevention of alcohol use disorders, especially in young people.
Many of Timberline Knolls residents have struggled with alcohol or have a family member trapped in this substance use pattern. Therefore, we have a multitude of educational events and innovative activities planned throughout the month of April to spotlight alcohol use disorders beyond our normally programming.
Speakers from AA and AL-ANON as well as members of our alumnae group will come to campus to share their personal stories. Residents will create alcohol awareness posters and a prize will be awarded to the winning lodge. Creative performances (dance, artwork, poetry, song, playing an instrument, etc.) will be presented by residents.
As with the NCADD, our desire is that the help we provide to residents today will translate into hope for tomorrow. Throughout our country, we need to see less alcohol-related illness, accidents and far fewer suicides.
