Alcohol Awareness as Self-Care

Alcohol abuse is very prevalent in the United States and has far-reaching implications. Alcohol is one of the most addictive substances. Approximately 95,000 Americans die from alcohol-related complications annually. Those who abuse alcohol are at high risk for high blood pressure, stroke, cirrhosis of the liver, and cancer. Alcohol also changes the composition of the brain and affects its function. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to memory deficits, cognitive impairment, loss of balance, and impaired judgment.

Alcohol abuse is big business in this country. The Alcohol industry generates approximately 70 billion dollars annually in tax revenue and sustains 4 million jobs. According to some reports, the alcohol industry spends nearly 2 billion dollars on advertising. Despite the amount of money spent advertising alcohol, minimal emphasis is placed on the potential deleterious effects of alcohol on the body. There is rarely discussion of the harm alcohol can do, but the focus tends to be on how alcohol enhances your social life. Some research suggests there is cardiovascular protection with moderate alcohol consumption. However, we should understand the implications of excessive alcohol use/abuse.

Did you know…

1. Alcohol abuse can lead to an increased risk of cancer

2. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause decreased sexual function and decreased testosterone in men

3. Approximately 30% of all traffic-related deaths involve alcohol-impaired drivers

4. Alcohol abuse leads to emotional instability

5. The liver is the organ most affected by alcohol abuse

6. Roughly 140,000 Americans die annually from excessive alcohol use

7. Alcohol abuse leads to poor nutritional status

8. Excessive alcohol consumption leads to loss of inhibition and can lead to risky behaviors

Alcohol is a large part of the American story. Much of this country’s wealth is rooted in the alcohol industry. It is a major fixture in holidays, celebrations, and social events. We will never live in an alcohol-free world, but we should learn consume alcohol responsibly and in moderation.

Here’s to your health!