Today is National Alcohol Screening Day. The day was created as a collaboration between the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and the non-profit Screening for Mental Health (SMH).
According to the NIAA, National Alcohol Screening Day is intended to “educate people about alcohol use disorders, screen them for a range of problems including risky drinking, and refer those in need to treatment resources.”[1]
Problem Drinking Isn’t Always Obvious
There’s a culturally ingrained idea of how the stages of problem drinking look: after destroying their life, a person finally hits a “rock bottom” they can’t accept and surrenders. However, in recent years, there’s been more conversation around the large spectrum of experiences around alcohol misuse.
Some people maintain a good job, have relationships with their family, and experience other traditional markers of “success,” but drink in an unhealthy way. Others lose everything important to them because of their alcohol use and continue to drink. Most fall somewhere in between.
National Alcohol Screening Day gives people a chance to discuss concerns they have about their drinking anonymously and without fear of judgement. If they need help, they are pointed to relevant resources and can choose to seek counseling. Thousands of screening sites across the country—at colleges, businesses, government agencies, and online—offer these services free of charge.
America is a Culture of Drinkers
The vast majority of Americans drink, and as alcohol is an addictive substance, it’s important to understand if you’re using it in a healthy way. The 2019 Survey on Drug Use and Health found that over 85% of Americans drink.[2] Over a quarter reported past-month binge drinking.[3] Another study found that 1 in 8 Americans has alcohol use disorder.
National Alcohol Screening Day sheds light on the fact that alcohol is a fixture in our society and there are many people silently struggling. But it also reminds us that help is available, and recovery is always possible.
If you are struggling with alcohol use or a mental health disorder, there is hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for addiction and mental health disorders in facilities across the country. Our staff—many of whom are in recovery themselves—will help you build a life free from alcohol or drugs. To learn more, call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.
[1] https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/national-alcohol-screening-day-april-6-national-wake-call-april-4-media-briefing-kick-event
[2] https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics
[3] https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics