April is Alcohol Awareness Month: Let's Talk About It
posted by Kasey Fear on Friday, April 4, 2025
As we step into spring, it's a fitting time to reflect on our health and well-being, especially when it comes to alcohol use. April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a national initiative aimed at increasing understanding about the impact of alcohol and encouraging people to take stock of their own drinking habits.
For many, drinking is just part of socializing or winding down at the end of the day. But for others, it can slowly become something more serious. Whether you're questioning your habits or just want to stay mindful, April is the perfect time to check in with yourself.
Why Awareness Matters
Alcohol misuse can affect your health, relationships, work, and emotional well-being. But because it’s so normalized in our society, it can be hard to spot when drinking has crossed a line.
Raising awareness helps reduce the stigma that often surrounds substance use and treatment. It gives people the courage to ask questions, seek support, and know they’re not alone.
Tips for Staying Mindful About Alcohol
If you’re curious about your relationship with alcohol or wondering if it's time to make a change, here are some strategies to help you assess and manage your alcohol consumption:
- Set drinking limits for yourself - daily and weekly - and write them down.
- Track how much you drink each day. This simple habit can reveal patterns you might not notice otherwise.
- Know your triggers. Stress, certain environments, or even specific people can lead to increased drinking.
- Ask a friend or loved one to help hold you accountable to your goals.
- Learn the guidelines. SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) provides Low Risk Drinking Guidelines. Just keep in mind that low risk doesn’t mean no risk.
What Counts as One Drink?
One of the most common misconceptions we see is around what qualifies as a “standard drink.” It’s easier than you think to over-pour, especially at home. Here’s a quick refresher:
- 12 ounces of beer
- 8 ounces of malt liquor
- 5 ounces of wine
- 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (a shot of 80-proof liquor)
The Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines are:
- Women: No more than 1 drink a day / 7 per week
- Men: No more than 2 drinks a day / 14 per week
- Adults 65+: No more than 1 drink a day / 7 per week
- Pregnant individuals: No amount of alcohol is safe
These numbers aren’t meant to shame anyone - they’re tools to help people make informed, healthy decisions.
Exciting News: Expanded Services at Spencer Hospital
We are thrilled to share that Spencer Hospital is expanding its substance abuse services by launching outpatient treatment options. This is a big step forward for our community, and we are so proud to be part of it.
Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive structured care—like individual counseling, group therapy, and personalized treatment plans—while still managing their daily responsibilities. It’s flexible, compassionate, and focused on each person’s unique path to recovery.
Our goal is to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to make positive changes.
If You’re Ready to Reach Out…
Whether it’s for yourself or someone you care about, help is available—and recovery is possible. You can contact Spencer Addiction Services at (712) 264-8473 or visit our Behavioral Health Services page to learn more or schedule an evaluation.
We know it can feel overwhelming to take that first step, but you’re not alone. So many people have walked this path before you—and found healing, hope, and a new beginning.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Alcohol Awareness Month is about more than facts and figures—it’s about people. It’s about compassion, understanding, and the belief that change is possible.
For more information regarding Alcohol Awareness Month, check out Newsradio 1240 KICD's community health podcast featuring Kasey Fear, Drug and Alcohol Counselor of Spencer Hospital. Follow the link to listen to the full episode - Weekly Health Update Alcohol Awareness Month: March 29, 2025
- addiction
- alcohol
- behavioral health
- substance abuse