HHS shares tools and resources for Alcohol Awareness Week
NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) wants to bring awareness to positive changes related to reducing or ending the use of alcohol during Alcohol Awareness Week.
Communities are coming together and investing in substance abuse prevention with the same goal: To create safe and healthy individuals, families, businesses, and communities.
Alcohol use in high school students went from 59.2% in 2001 to 23.7% in 2021, according to the 2021 North Dakota Youth Risk Behavior Survey.
“North Dakota has made consistent progress in addressing underage alcohol use. Research points to the role of parents as critical in developing responsible habits in children through strong, open family relationships,” said Pamela Sagness, the Behavioral Health director. “Not only does prevention save lives, but it is also cost-effective.”
HHS has tools and resources to implement prevention strategies for parents and caregivers through Parents Lead.
Even with this progress, HHS wants people to continue taking steps to address alcohol use, misuse, and consequences, as this is necessary for prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery services and supports.
Early intervention is key. Recognizing warning signs and providing intervention can decrease the likelihood of developing addiction.
HHS has providers to offer evidence-based education for driving under the influence and minor in possession offenses. You can learn more and find a provider here.
Not all drinks are made to be equal, so those of age and aiming to drink responsibly can learn the amount of alcohol in drinks to make more informed decisions. The Alculator tool helps to identify the alcohol content of beverages, you can find that here.
There is hope for those struggling with addiction, treatment works and recovery is possible. You can find treatment services here. Recovery Talk is another resource, it’s available 24/7 via phone or text at 701-291-7901.
