April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Illustration of beer, wine and liquor bottles and glasses

Alcohol use has increased over the last two years, as people cope with anxiety, uncertainty, boredom, and loneliness.

April is recognized as National Alcohol Awareness Month. Now is a good time to raise your awareness about alcohol misuse, the possible causes, and how to prevent it.

Reducing or abstaining from alcohol

This month and year-around, programs and resources are available to help you or a loved one manage alcohol use. Support is available whether choosing to reduce alcohol use or abstain altogether.

Confidential, brief one-on-one counseling and health education are available through the Alcohol Management Program. Open to faculty, staff and their adult dependents. Participation in this service is private and is never shared with your supervisor or insurance company.
The MHealthy Portal, powered by Asset Health, includes the self-guided Path to Wellness: Substance Abuse program focused on alcohol or other drug use. Available to benefits-eligible faculty, staff and their U-M health plan enrolled spouses/OQAs.
Making a small change, like keeping track of your alcohol use (on an app like Saying When), setting limits, or drinking water in between alcoholic drinks, can make a big difference.
If you’ve ever wondered if life would be better without alcohol, you might be “sober curious.” This article from Verywell Mind helps you understand what it means to be sober curious.

Coping with feelings that may contribute to alcohol misuse

Feeling stress, burned out or anxiety can all be reasons why someone turns to alcohol. Instead of using alcohol to cope, resources are available to help with how you’re feeling.