One weekend. No alcohol. Can you do it?
To create public awareness for its Alcohol Awareness Month , the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence extends an open invitation to all Americans to refrain from drinking alcohol during the weekend of April 5th through 7th and calling it their Alcohol-Free Weekend.
Why Should I Take the Alcohol-Free Weekend Challenge?
For many social drinkers, abstaining from alcohol might seem unnecessary. If you’re not addicted to alcohol, why is it so important for you to go without it for a weekend?
Even if you do not consider yourself as someone with an alcohol problem, this is an opportunity for you to show support for those who are coping with alcohol-related problems. You see, some of us are not like you. We are not able to drink responsibly. Once we start, we can’t stop. And this causes problems.
While you may not struggle with an alcohol addiction, this is your chance to show your support for those of us who have been or are still caught in the grip of addiciton. Do you want to help those whose lives are being ravaged by the monster of addiction? Do you support the alcoholic’s jouney to a better life in recovery? THIS is your chance to show it!
Will you stand with us in seeking to provide help and hope for those who need it? Will you join with us for just one weekend without alcohol?
Taking the Alcohol-Free Weekend Challenge
This 72-hour experiment is also a chance to find out just how important alcohol means to you.Those who find it difficult or experience discomfort during the alcohol-free weekend may be experiencing early signs of dependence and may even require professional detoxification. We encourage these individuals or families to contact a support group or treatment center and learn more about alcoholism and its early symptoms.
How do I know if I or a loved one needs help?
Addiction is a subtle process, and many are not aware they have a problem with drinking—until they are forced to go without it.
Dependence on alcohol manifests itself both psychologically and physically when drinking ceases. For example, feelings of anxiety, distress, restlessness, depression, and cravings may indicate that alcohol has become more than a just a method of relaxation or socialization.
Also, if your body has become used to the continual presence of alcohol, suddenly stopping can cause physical effects, such as
- Sweating
- tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Insomnia
Although mild, these symptoms may progress to more severe conditions for some. In more severe cases, professional care may be necessary to ensure safety and comfort as you abstain.
Will you join?
We encourage you to join Duffy’s and the thousands of individuals across the nation and participate this weekend in honor of Alcohol Awareness Month.
If you have any further questions or concerns during the weekend, please feel free to contact Duffy’s today (707-348-4874).