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Alcohol Prevention

Problems with alcohol can happen to anyone. We must understand that in modern society, everyone is in danger of getting involved with alcohol at one point or another. Alcohol prevention can be an overwhelming issue to deal with but it doesn't have to be. All you really need to begin are the easy tips on this page. Put them into practice and those you care about as well as yourself will reap the rewards of living a healthy life.

It is easy to stay clean if you are never presented with the temptation of alcohol. If you don't see it, don't see other people doing it and are not reminded of it, you will have a much easier time staying sober. It is when it is put in front of you that you are going to have problems.

Alcohol prevention is the most difficult substance to have to avoid. They do not advertise other drugs such as cocaine during the commercial breaks of your favorite t.v. show. You can not have a quick heroin injection to go with your steak and mashed potatoes at your favorite restaurant. Alcohol is present nearly everywhere you go. Self control is the key in alcohol prevention. You have to know that you now have your life on track and you do not want to go back to who you were before.

How to help other in the prevention of alcohol use
1. Be their greatest fan. Compliment them on all of their efforts, the strength of their character, and their individuality.
2. Get them involved in activities. Ask them what types of activities they're interested in and contact the proper organizations to make arrangements. Sometimes it takes a bit of experimenting to find out which activities they are best suited for, but it's worth the effort—feeling competent makes people much less likely to use alcohol.
3. Help them develop tools they can use to get out of alcohol- or drug-related situations.
4. Call to see that events are alcohol-free ahead of time. This will prevent any difficult situations.
5. Encourage open dialogue with them about their experiences. Make sure they understand that they can ask you anything and that you'll give them an honest answer.
6. Set a no-use rule for alcohol other drugs.
7. Sit down for dinner with with them at least once a week. Use the time to talk.
8. Get and stay involved in their lives.

• Research shows that controlling alcohol availability is effective in the prevention of alcohol-related problems. These facts on alcohol availability show the challenge communities face:
  • Where access to alcohol is greater, consumption is greater. When consumption rates are high, problems related to alcohol increase dramatically.
  • Local communities have the power to control alcohol availability, but most do not make full use of their power and resources.
• Actions communities can take in the prevention of underage access to alcohol. The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention found that six approaches show the most promise for effective prevention.
  • Prevent underage youth from obtaining alcohol.
  • Establish laws and policies to govern alcohol distribution methods, "happy-hour" policies, minimum legal purchase age, alcohol taxes, and licensing of alcohol outlets.
  • Promote and enforce responsible beverage service.
  • Change the conditions of availability-for example, regulate outlet density, create restrictions on alcohol sales, and develop regulations for alcohol at special events and locations.
  • Limit the hours and days of alcohol sales.
  • Use a community-based approach-involve concerned citizens and community groups, law enforcement and public officials, in an effort to recognize the need to change local laws, regulations, and policies.

Because stress affects the whole person, good stress management skills allow you to manage all parts of your life (including alcohol prevention). The following list is things you can do to help keep stress under control and alcohol out of your life:

1. Get Physical: Build up your strength and stamina.
2. Relax: Develop a list of activities you find relaxing and do them regularly.
3. Eat Well: Eat good basic foods such as whole grain cereals and breads, fish, meat, fruits and vegetables. Avoid too much caffeine (coffee, soft drinks), nicotine (cigarettes and cigars), and sugar.
4. Take Care of YOU: Treat yourself kindly. Don't push beyond your limits.
5. Exercise: Learn to get the benefits of regular exercise.
6. Use Your Mental Skills: Use your mind to help cope with stress more effectively.
7. Manage Your Time Well: Pause to think about what is really important and give time to those things.
8. Organize: Seek order. Don't let things pile up.
9. Problem Solve: Address issues as they come up. Don't hesitate to ask others to help.
10. Build a Support Network: Develop a network of resources and people that you can count on.
11. Use Family and Friends for Support: Your family and friends may help you solve problems and reduce stress.
12. Keep Life in Balance: Make sure you set aside time for home as well as work commitments.
13. Enjoy Time with Others: Spend time with those you care about, doing things that everyone enjoys.
14. Settle Conflicts: Look for solutions where all sides win.
15. Getting Along with Others: It's important to build relationships that will help you in dealing with stress in your life.
16. Try New Things: Discovering healthy new ways to have fun is a great way to reduce your tension level. Try new recreational activities and find new hobbies.
17. Stay Open to Change: Try new approaches.
18. Believe in Yourself: Trust others. Share and show feelings. Share your burdens with your family and friends. Be direct about your wants, needs, and feelings.
19. Learning: Take a class. Exercise your mind.
20. Enjoy Music: Play an instrument. Join a choir. Work: Volunteer for something worthwhile.
21. Get Away: Spend more time alone.
22. Play: Go out with a friend.

The easiest way to add to your methods for handling stress is to develop one new habit at a time. Remember you have the power and ability to decide not to use alcohol!