Alcohol Awareness Month is a time to learn the risks of alcohol misuse and its impact on individuals and communities.

Alcohol-related problems continue to take a heavy toll on society. Researchers estimate that each year there are more than 178,000 alcohol-related deaths, making alcohol a leading preventable cause of death in the United States. In addition, more than 200 disease and injury-related conditions are associated with alcohol misuse.

Signs of drinking too much:

• You drink more or longer than you intended.
• You try to cut down or stop drinking, but are not able to.
• You need to drink more than you once did to get the effect you want.
• You continue to drink even though it makes you feel depressed or anxious―or adds to another health problem.
• Loved ones or trusted friends have made comments about your drinking.
• You spend a lot of time drinking or thinking about alcohol.
• You find that drinking interferes with daily activities, family, friends, or work.

If you’re concerned, you can check your alcohol use:

• Set a daily and weekly drinking limit.
• Write down your limit and keep it with you.
• Record how much you drink each day.
• Avoid situations and triggers that cause you to drink.
• Ask a friend to help you stay within your limit.
• Talk with a doctor about your alcohol use.

Learn more at samhsa.gov/alcohol. If you or someone in your life needs help with substance use issues, you can call 1-844-CHD-HELP or visit chd.org/contact-us.