Help

Fourteen million American adults suffer from alcohol abuse or alcoholism, and more than 100,000 people die from alcohol-related diseases and injuries each year .

Alcohol abuse is characterized by clinically significant impairment or distress but does not entail physical dependence. Alcohol dependence (alcoholism) is characterized by impaired control over drinking, tolerance, withdrawal syndrome when alcohol is removed, neglect of normal activities for drinking, and continued drinking despite recurrent related physical or psychological problems.

At-risk drinking includes drinking beyond moderate levels either on a regular basis or on a particular occasion. Whether you are concerned about your own drinking habits or those of someone you love, getting help is easier than you think.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (US DHHS) offers a searchable database listing treatment providers across the country. You can search for treatment programs which specialize in adolescents, older adults, women with children and other special populations.

Call (800) 662-HELP (800-662-4357) or search on the SAMHSA website.

Additional national and local resources that can help a person get help for an alcohol problem.