April 12, 2017 - When you’re younger and your parents needed to have a serious conversation, they would call you in and ask that you have a seat. This meant that the topic was serious and required our full attention. This is a similar time; a time for real from the heart conversation. We need to talk about a potential issue with a substance that dwells within the homes of even the most law-abiding citizens. This substance has found its way into numerous aspects of our lives. It’s everywhere…the kitchen, the living room, various social gatherings, and in our cars…it’s alcohol.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving tells us that 2013 was a scary year for Texans. That year, Texas had over 1300 deaths caused by a drunk driver, more than any other state. There were also over 25,000 crashes and over 70,000 convictions for drunk driving. So, what did this cost us? It cost $6.2 billion in tax payer subsidy for alcohol related fatalities and most importantly, we lost children, friends, sisters, brothers, mothers, and fathers. Some of us lost our homes, our jobs, our way of life, and our sense of security. At the Prevention Resource Center (PRC) we believe that the price is too high. In fact, we feel that our friends (this includes you) feel the same. That leaves many of us wondering what we can do.
Talk to those you know about their attitudes related to drinking. Talking about the dangers of alcohol can be a tough topic but it is a worthy one. For more information for discussion, you have access to at least two resources: The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Deep East Texas (ADAC) and the Prevention Resource Center (PRC).
Be vigilant. The signs of excessive alcohol intake include but are not limited to: “glassy” appearance in the eyes, redness of the face and neck, slurred speech, inability to perform usually simple tasks such as writing, and lowered caution levels.
Kick out the danger. Remove all alcoholic beverages from home or at least out of reach of underage children.
Make sure you’re carrying the prevention lessons learned at school into your home. Don’t let the conversation stop at the schoolhouse. Make sure your children know they can have fun without drinking.
If you or anyone you know are struggling with addiction, help and assistance are available. ADAC can be reached toll-free at 800-445-8512 in Lufkin. The PRC provides the community with tobacco education, trainings, and data related to underage alcohol, prescription, and other drug abuse. The PRC can be reached toll-free at 844-772-3483. Prevention works and together, we can do this.
