SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – April brings us spring, which in Tahoe could mean many different things. However, spring is a time of growth and new life, with increased sunshine, blooming flowers, and a sense of hope. April is Alcohol Awareness Month, and a great time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol and embrace a healthier lifestyle. 

DID YOU KNOW that about 178,000 people die from excessive drinking each year? That’s 488 deaths per day, making alcohol a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. 

DID YOU KNOW that excessive alcohol use is a term used to describe four ways that people drink alcohol that can negatively impact their health? Excessive Drinking includes binge drinking, heavy drinking, drinking while pregnant, and any amount of drinking if you are under the age of 21. Excessive alcohol use is a leading preventable cause of death.

DID YOU KNOW a great way to make change is to create a plan before going out? Here are some tips while creating a plan:

  • Decide on a max number of drinks and stick to it
  • Avoid drinking games and shots
  • Mix in drinking water and mocktails 
  • Eat before going out or to an event
  • Make plans to do something fun and exciting in the morning.
  • Put a time limit on your evening

DID YOU KNOW that excessive alcohol use causes about 4,000 deaths among young people (under 21) each year?  These deaths are from several alcohol-related causes, such as Motor vehicle crashes, violence and other injuries, suicide, and drug overdoses. Excessive alcohol use can also increase the risk of harm to other people. By creating environments that make drinking less an easier choice, you can improve the health and well-being of your community.

DID YOU KNOW there are direct ways you can support young people?

  • Don’t serve alcohol to those younger than 21.
  • Support efforts to reduce underage drinking.  Young people under 21 who drink alcohol are more likely to have negative effects on their health, safety, and well-being. 
  • Follow proven strategies that help young people reach their highest potential, with less pressure to drink by creating environments that support young people and families in drinking less, such as:
    • Making alcohol less available
    • Reduce the number of places that sell alcohol and increase the distance between them.
    • Increasing the price of alcohol, raising taxes on alcohol can increase its price.
    • Enhancing enforcement of laws on alcohol sales

A great resource in our community for substance use for  yourself or a loved one (including a teen) is Mountain High Recovery Center is a great resource in our community- 

Home – Mountain High Recovery Center

TASK- the Tahoe Alliance for Safe Kids is a local non-profit that addresses topics each month through our Did You Know Campaign. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and resources each month around the highlighted DYK Campaign or visit our website at www.tahoesafekids.org