We are continuing to bring awareness to alcohol abuse According to alcohol.org,1 Alcohol Awareness Month is a public health program organized by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence as a way of increasing outreach and education regarding the dangers of alcoholism and issues related to alcohol. The program was started in April 1987 with the intention of targeting college-aged students who might be drinking too much as part of their newfound freedom. Alcohol Awareness Month has since become a national movement to draw more attention to the causes and effects of alcoholism as well as how to help families and communities deal with drinking problems.
In this final article, we will address alcohol poisoning. According to the American Addiction Centers at www.alcohol.org, binge drinking is a dangerous practice that can cause physical harm. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) classifies binge drinking as a drinking pattern that leads to a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.08/g/dl and above. For adult women, that’s typically around 4 drinks (5 for adult men) within a couple of hours of each other. The American Addiction Centers indicates that drinking too much can lead to alcohol poisoning:
Signs of alcohol poisoning include:
• Confusion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slowed or irregular breathing.
• Cyanosis, or a blue-tinted skin.
• Pale skin.
• Low body temperature or hypothermia.
• Unconsciousness.
• Seizures.
If you suspect alcohol poisoning call 911 for help immediately. The American Addiction Centers notes that alcohol poisoning can cause permanent brain damage and even death.(1)
Beloved, it is important to remember that alcohol and drug addiction can happen even in the best of families and can affect the whole family. If there is alcohol or substance abuse with you or a family member, contact a physician or health care agency for assistance and support. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services also provides SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). SAMHSA is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Administration that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA’s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities. SAMHSA offers a national helpline that is free, confidential and 24/7/365 days a year treatment referral and information service in English and Spanish for individuals, families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline:
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
TTY 1-800-487-4889
Sources:
1 American Addiction Centers Editorial Staff, “Alcohol Poisoning, Updated February, 2019.
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General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your medical doctor or health care provider. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.