April is Alcohol Awareness Month and the Division of Behavioral Health in Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has an important message about alcohol use. For those struggling with alcohol use and/or any other addiction — help is available and recovery is possible.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, it’s estimated that more than 140,000 people die from alcohol-related causes annually.
“This awareness month allows us to spread information about the signs and effects of substance use and the misuse of alcohol,” said Tony Green, Interim Director of the Division of Behavioral Health. It is important for communities, friends, and family to talk about alcohol, discuss the severity and reality of substance use, spread information on how to talk to a loved one who may have concerning behaviors and share resources to find help. There is help and there is hope, no matter the severity of the situation.”
In Nebraska in 2020, 12.4% of young adults reported driving under the influence of alcohol during the past year. Prevention efforts have reduced young adult binge drinking throughout Nebraska.
Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis? Help is available. If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:
- The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; call, text, or chat 988
- SAMHSA Find Treatment Website: https://findtreatment.gov/
- Your faith-based leader, your healthcare professional, or your student health center on campus.
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660
- Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (oprime dos para Español) or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
- National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
