Preventions for Alcoholism in Sociology

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that 50 percent of the population declared themselves as current regular drinkers, which they define as an intake of over 12 drinks per year. Alcoholism has been related to a number of incidents such as fatal car accidents, suicides and even murder.The alarming growth rate of this epidemic drove the government and other public entities toward a large campaign for its prevention.

Raising Awareness

• Lack of knowledge has precipitated thousands of people into the alcoholism abyss. They drink because they are unaware of the high risks involved with alcohol dependency. Spreading the word about this disease not only will help those already suffering from it, but may save many lives as a result of its prevention.

Education

• They say "Knowledge is power," yet many schools lack a well-structured, alcohol and drug dependency prevention program. Virtually every country in the world has an Alcoholic Anonymous group, or another organization ready to instruct people about the dangers of alcohol dependency. A practical approach for its prevention should include regular visits to schools from such organizations.

Assessment

• Not only do children and teenagers need to be educated about alcoholism, but entire families as well. Recovering alcoholics often emphasize that their disease was a direct result of traumatic events they were unable to cope with. Parents should pay close attention to their children's behaviors in order to capture any abrupt changes that may imply an existing, troublesome situation. Addressing traumatic events with proper health professionals may prevent a potential alcoholic from ever taking that first drink.

Alternatives

• Indoor and outdoor activities alike regularly provide an extensive array of alcoholic beverages. Creating public activities in safe, alcohol-free environments will aid in the prevention of alcoholism. Media messages that constantly bombard their viewers with alcohol consumption should be revised and controlled, in order to reduce the exposure people have to alcohol upon encountering these.

Expert Insight

• If you suspect you or a loved one is suffering from alcoholism, seek help immediately. When in doubt, it is better to prevent further health and mental issues that will eventually lead to a devastating chain of events, harming not only the alcoholic, but his family and loved ones as well. Many people have recovered from this fatal disease with a good support group and professional assistance. They have learned a better, healthier and happier way of life.