With the recent numbers coming out about opioid related deaths, it is easy to forget about alcohol and what it is doing to people, but we must not.
While the current heroin and prescription pill epidemic is disturbing, you may be more troubled to know that alcohol is still killing more people annually than any other substance.
The NIAAA reports that 88,000 people die per year from alcohol-related causes. That number ranks alcohol as the fourth leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. On an international level, it is the fifth leading cause of disability & early death, and is the first for individuals between 15-49 years old.
The great reality is that drinking is one of America’s favorite pastimes. Alcohol is socially the most accepted substance out there, and is constantly promoted in the media. Think about it. How many super bowl commercials advertise alcoholic beverages? How often do you drive past a billboard promoting a beer company? Are you able to attend a wedding where no one is drinking?
Although 30% of Americans do not drink whatsoever, a reported 24 million people consume an average of 74 alcoholic beverages per week. Yes, 74! More than 10 a day.
Furthermore, alcohol continues to be a drain on the American economy. A reported $250 billion is spent each year. Most costs are a direct result of crime related to drinking, reduced workplace productivity and treating health problems caused by alcohol consumption.
Alcoholism is not dead in today’s world. Although it may be easy to push the issue aside with the present concern of heroin addiction, we must stay informed and educated on the effects of alcohol.
Yes, heroin addiction is killing more than we have ever seen before, but alcoholism and its deadly side-effects still surpass that number. It is responsible for many health problems and can have fatal withdrawal symptoms. Some consequences of excessive use are:
- Liver disease
- Heart failure
- Increases likelihood of cancer
- Cirrhosis
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
For decades, Clearbrook has treated alcoholism and helped those individuals rebuild their lives. By implementing the steps, traditions and principles of AA and NA, we have watched broken people find their way out of the darkness.
If you think you may have a problem with alcohol, please do not hesitate to contact us. With our state of the art detox unit, we offer a medically supervised detox process that ensures your safety.
Call our Admissions Specialists today and begin on your road to recovery. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have.
