To attract the attention of local communities to the detrimental effects of alcoholism and alcohol-related issues, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence declared the month of April as Alcohol Awareness Month in 1987. Ever since then, Alcohol Awareness Month has continued to reach out to the American public with a valuable message regarding alcoholism – that it is not a moral fault but a treatable condition that can be successfully cured. The message emphasizes the fact that alcoholics are capable of complete recovery no matter how bad their addiction is.

Why Is Alcoholism A Serious Issue?

Most people consider alcoholism as an adult problem. However, one study conducted by NASD (National Alcohol Screening Day) states that about 20 percent of eighth graders, 35 percent of tenth graders and 48 percent of twelfth graders regularly consume alcohol. Due to the secret nature of alcohol use, it often goes unchecked or even unnoticed by guardians. Being unaware of the health risks and eager to gain peer acceptance, many kids and teens take to alcohol consumption that may eventually lead to issues like drunk driving, drug use and sexual assault.

Other groups of alcohol abusers prevalent in the United States include:

• Professionals who regularly drink after a long, tiring day of work.
• Pregnant women who consume alcohol, obviously being unaware that their babies face a higher risk of developing fetal alcohol syndrome.
• Senior citizens who drink heavily out of loneliness.

Alcohol Use Among Kids And Teens

It has been noted that kids and teens who suffer from anxiety or depression often resort to alcohol consumption as a self-medication method. Kids who are isolated from the protective and understanding atmosphere of a family system may not have any other positive connections to keep them away from alcohol-involved peer groups. In addition, kids with weak coping skills, school-related stress or alcoholic family members are at an increased risk of adopting alcohol use. That makes alcohol abuse among kids and teens a pervasive issue that calls for immediate awareness programs and prevention action.

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