Every April, Alcohol Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the dangers of alcohol misuse and the importance of prevention, education, and access to compassionate care. Originally established in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), this initiative continues to encourage open dialogue about alcohol use and supports individuals and families affected by alcohol use disorder (AUD).

At Recovery at the Crossroads, located in Blackwood, NJ, we take this month as an opportunity to not only raise awareness—but also to reaffirm our commitment to healing, education, and community outreach, with culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and kosher-accommodating care.

Why Alcohol Awareness Month Matters

While social drinking is common in many communities, it’s easy to overlook when casual consumption escalates into unhealthy patterns. Alcohol Awareness Month aims to reduce the stigma around seeking help and encourages individuals to evaluate their own relationships with alcohol. It also highlights the importance of early intervention and accessible treatment options for those struggling with alcohol misuse.

Organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and NCADD lead nationwide efforts during April to educate the public, support recovery, and advocate for treatment over punishment.

The Impact of Excessive Alcohol Use

Recent statistics from the CDC, updated in August 2024, shed light on the urgent need for awareness and intervention:

  • 178,000 deaths per year are linked to alcohol-related causes in the U.S., making it one of the leading preventable causes of death.
  • Over 50% of American adults drink alcohol.
  • 17% engage in binge drinking, defined as 4+ drinks for women and 5+ drinks for men on a single occasion.
  • 6% are heavy drinkers, consuming 8+ drinks weekly for women and 15+ for men.
  • Nearly all heavy drinkers also engage in binge drinking.

Binge drinking is the most common form of excessive alcohol use, and while not all who binge drink are dependent, the long-term consequences can be just as severe—ranging from liver disease and cancer to impaired judgment, injury, and mental health challenges.

How You Can Participate in Alcohol Awareness Month

Whether you’ve been personally affected by alcohol misuse or simply want to support healthier communities, there are many ways to get involved:

  • Share Information Online: Use your social media platforms to spread facts and stories about alcohol misuse. Sharing educational resources can spark conversation and reduce shame for those who may be struggling in silence.
  • Attend or Host Local Events: Look for community events in Camden County, Cherry Hill, Woodbury, or Washington Township—such as seminars, open forums, or recovery walks. If you’re affiliated with a synagogue, school, or nonprofit, consider hosting your own awareness event.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Nonprofits and community centers often need help with event planning, education, or peer support. Volunteering is a meaningful way to give back and be part of the solution.
  • Donate to Support Treatment and Education: Your contributions can help fund life-saving programs like outpatient treatment, group therapy, and trauma-informed care. Supporting organizations aligned with your values can make a direct impact.
  • Try an Alcohol-Free Weekend: Participate in NCADD’s “Alcohol-Free Weekend” by abstaining from alcohol for three days during April. This can be an eye-opening personal experience—and a great conversation starter with friends or family.

Treatment with Heart: Alcohol Recovery in a Kosher-Sensitive Environment

At Recovery at the Crossroads, we provide comprehensive outpatient and partial care programs designed to support the unique needs of our community—including those seeking kosher accommodations and faith-aligned care. Our services include:

We proudly serve individuals across Blackwood, Turnersville, Cherry Hill, Washington Heights, NY, Woodbury, and surrounding  communities.

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

Alcohol misuse doesn’t have to define your future. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use disorder, help is available. At Recovery at the Crossroads, our compassionate team is ready to walk with you every step of the way—from your first call to long-term recovery.

Call us today at 888-342-3881, or contact us online to learn more about our personalized treatment options.

This April, take the first step toward recovery—or help someone else take theirs.