Alcohol Awareness Month, first organized by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) in April 1987, raises public awareness about the risks associated with alcohol misuse and the importance of seeking help for problematic alcohol use.  

The purpose is to educate individuals on the dangers of excessive drinking, encourage healthier lifestyle choices, and promote resources for those in need of support and treatment.  

Why is awareness about alcohol misuse important for Marines? The Marine Corps has the highest percentage of hazardous drinking behaviors of the armed services. Department of Defense data shows that more than one-third (38.6 percent) of male Marines engage in heavy alcohol use, compared with 17.8 percent of the male civilian population. Nearly 13 percent of female Marines engage in heavy drinking, compared with 5.5 percent of the female civilian population.  

Excessive drinking is a challenge to readiness. Marines are “first to fight” and always ready to answer our nation’s call. Marines can leverage national efforts like Alcohol Awareness Month to learn about the signs and symptoms of alcohol misuse and how to address it for themselves and the person to their left and their right. One Team, One Fight!  

As a leading cause of preventable death, alcohol misuse is a major public health issue in the U.S. Excessive alcohol use is responsible for as many as 178,000 deaths  annually, with more of those linked to chronic misuse. Excessive alcohol consumption also costs the U.S. roughly $250 billion each year.  

Raising awareness about alcohol misuse helps to reduce stigma, encourage individuals to seek help, and encourage a supportive environment for recovery. By highlighting the dangers of excessive drinking and the benefits of low-risk drinking, Alcohol Awareness Month plays an important role in preventing alcohol-related health issues and improving overall community health. 

Alcohol Awareness Month is a great opportunity to do something that should be done all year long - educate individuals on the dangers of excessive drinking, encourage healthier lifestyle choices, and promote resources for those in need of support and treatment. 

For more information or support, contact your local Substance Assessment and Counseling Center or visit www.usmc-mccs.org/substance.