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Alcohol Awareness Month: Why It Matters


Kentucky is known around the world for three things: bourbon, tobacco, and horse racing. (Okay, we know tobacco may have technically packed its bags and moved on—but nicotine addiction still lingers. In 2021, 21.9% of Kentucky high school students reported using electronic vapor products within the past 30 days, exceeding the national average of 18.0%.) These industries are more than economic powerhouses—they’re woven into the fabric of our identity, shaping traditions, tourism, and even how we celebrate. But behind the glamor and history lies a deeper reality: these same industries are also tied to substance use, addiction, and long-term health issues that impact families across our Commonwealth. If you’re concerned about the rise in youth vaping, check out these youth vaping prevention resources from the CDC. 

That’s why Alcohol Awareness Month, recognized every April, matters—especially here. Started in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), this month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the real-life effects of alcohol misuse, promote healthier norms, and uplift those in recovery. In communities where alcohol is not just accepted but often celebrated, awareness becomes even more critical.

Understanding Alcohol Use and Its Risks
Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances in the world. In Kentucky, it’s often part of the culture—served at family gatherings, sold at every corner store, and featured in festivals. But excessive alcohol use can lead to serious health risks: liver disease, heart problems, neurological damage, addiction, and mental health issues.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), about 14.5 million adults in the U.S. struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD). And we know that in many Kentucky neighborhoods, especially those already facing health inequities, alcohol misuse adds another layer of harm.

Impact on Health and Society

  1. Physical Health: Long-term alcohol use affects nearly every organ in the body. It can lead to chronic illness, certain types of cancer, and weakened immune response, leaving people more vulnerable to other health issues.  💓

  2. Mental Health: Alcohol is often used to cope with emotional pain—but it can worsen depression and anxiety over time. It’s a cycle we see too often: people drink to escape, but the escape only deepens the struggle.  🧠

  3. Social and Economic Consequences: Alcohol misuse strains relationships, damages family structures, and disrupts community safety. It also comes with a massive price tag. According to the CDC, excessive alcohol use cost the U.S. economy $249 billion in 2010—much of that in healthcare costs and lost productivity.  💰💸

Why Alcohol Awareness Matters—Especially in Kentucky

  1. Education: Knowledge is power. Alcohol Awareness Month gives us a chance to talk openly about the risks of alcohol misuse and to educate people about warning signs. Understanding what responsible drinking looks like—and what it doesn’t—is key to making safer choices.  📚

  2. Prevention: Prevention starts early. At STYC, we’re proud to support youth-focused efforts, including alcohol retail compliance checks that help ensure stores aren’t selling alcohol to minors. When we hold systems accountable, we create healthier environments for our young people.    ✅

  3. Support & Resources: Recovery is real—but no one should have to do it alone. STYC is committed to connecting individuals and families to the help they need, from local support groups to national hotlines. We believe in meeting people where they are, and walking with them toward a healthier future.   

  4. Stigma Reduction: In a state where bourbon is a source of pride, it can be hard to talk about alcohol-related harm without shame or judgment. But breaking the stigma is essential. When we make space for real conversations—especially among youth—we open the door for healing, honesty, and hope.   👀

Conclusion
In Kentucky, where the legacy of alcohol is both cultural and commercial, Alcohol Awareness Month is more than a national observance—it’s a call to action. At STYC, we’re committed to shifting the narrative. Through education, prevention, and compassion, we’re helping build a future where healthier choices are the norm, not the exception.

Together, we can reduce harm, and create communities where every young person feels empowered to thrive—free from the pressure and consequences of alcohol misuse.  

Links for preventing underage drinking

SAMHSA's "Talk. They Hear You."® Campaign: This initiative aims to reduce underage drinking by equipping parents and caregivers with the tools to start conversations with their children about alcohol and other substances. ​SAMHSA+2SAMHSA+2Welcome to Oklahoma's Official Web Site+2SAMHSA+2SAMHSA+2Welcome to Oklahoma's Official Web Site+2

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Resources: NIAAA offers a variety of materials tailored for middle schoolers, including tips for parents on discussing alcohol with their children. ​NIAAA

StopAlcoholAbuse.gov: This portal provides comprehensive federal resources aimed at preventing underage drinking and its associated consequences

Contributor’s Note: Bonnie Taylor, MSW, LCSW, is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist based in Louisville, KY, specializing in trauma care for youth and adults. With a deep commitment to community well-being, she has been collaborating with STYC for the past two years, offering her expertise and support wherever needed.


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