Online Alcohol Awareness Classes: 2011

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Frequently when I teach alcohol drug classes college students ask, "How can I tell if I'm an alcoholic." This article will handle what I like to label "The Mind of an Addict."

In The Beginning - Are We All Created Equal?

Both yes and no responses to this question are appropriate. Each and every individual is made with a personal mind and body; he is presented with perseverance and he is free to do whatever he wishes when it comes to his acts. This free choice covers all of our routines, consisting of consumption of foods and beverages.

Genetics is incredibly crucial for the character of a person. Several people are prone to addictive behavior like cigarette smoking or consuming alcoholic beverages, and that is a fact proven by geneticists. Predisposition or not, we still have the power to choose whether to drink alcohol or smoke.

The Mentality of An Addict

No person drinks and toasts in the hope of becoming an alcoholic You can find drugs that can easily turn you into an addict from the very first time you use them; crystal meth and also heroin are two of such narcotics. For most drugs, like alcohol consumption, destructive addictions happen right after extended and often regular use.

Thus, as opposed to replying to my frequent query of how am I able to tell when somebody is an alcoholic, I simply ask them if they have " An Addict's Spirit".

For our uses, my classification of "Mind of an Addict" is a person's incredible ability to rationalize their drinking behavior. Our intellects are extremely powerful and joined with our vanity can generate effective and gripping reasons that lets us know that what we are doing is Ok.

"An Addict's Mind" Common Sense

One of my first signs that I might have a predicament transpired throughout college or university and is certainly one of our brain's frequent justifications for our demeanor "I'm just like everybody else." I used to drink alcohol a lot and many times per week I was just exhausted by alcohol. Did I drink until I passed out every night? Definitely not. Nonetheless, I was binge drinking virtually every time I drank. Thankfully, for my pride, for my solid case of rejection, I had surrounded myself by a like group of drinkers. I was in fact "normal."

I couldn't notice my issue and I kept on denying everything mainly because I was enclosed by people who seemed to drink a lot more than I did. That was my everyday living. I was employed by a community newspaper and given that we were leaving work late we usually stopped in pubs and after we often moved to someone's place and carry on drinking.

I used to think that I was normal and that I experienced a normal daily life. I didn't want to admit I had a problem. I was just 22 and in control and experiencing my life. The bait was established and I had bought in hook, line and sinker.

As a news reporter, I also authored comedic columns about attending sex addiction and alcohol anonymous programs. Here I was, on my way to serious alcohol addiction, and possibly with a sex addiction (but aren't all 22 year olds addicted to sex?) and I was able to mock them and their genuine value programs like these have for junkies who want to rid themselves of their issue and flip their day-to-day lives around!

Asking for Help

Taking part in a course like Alcoholics Anonymous may be a massive assistance for an addict commencing and preserving abstinence from booze. You will find also online alcohol classes and alcohol awareness classes that could be taken from home. It's extremely essential to stop consuming alcohol for good simply because an alcoholic's system will always stay alcoholic. The smallest blunder can easily induce your body, and by the time you know it alcohol consumption will be your greatest problem once more.

In spite of its legitimate position, it is essential to take note that alcohol is a drug and its usage should be controlled. In case you know somebody that is an alcoholic try to make them to look for professional therapy. You will find web based alternatives to take voluntary and also involuntary lessons on alcohol rehabilitation. Options include 8 hour alcohol awareness classes, 16 hour alcohol awareness classes, 12 hour alcohol awareness classes and 24 hour alcohol awareness classes

This is the very first in a number of alcohol exploring the power of the brain and its capacity to convince us that it is OK to keep on drinking or doing drugs. On our upcoming article we will talk more about other examples related to "The Mind of an Addict".

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Teen Drinking is Something Parents Should Know About

As a consultant for both alcohol drug classes and also minor in possession (MIP) classes I frequently ask my younger college students where they acquired the alcohol they ingested just before getting in danger. In a surprisingly large number of situations, I would say probably 10% said their parents bought it for them.

What's the issue in this state? Are mothers and fathers failing to remember that they have to be a parent? There has to be a zero-tolerance for parents acquiring alcohol for their children, and it's even worse that numerous even acquire it so their child can consume alcohol with good friends.

Sound or Mistaken Concept

The idea behind parents or adults acquiring alcohol for youngsters is that they are going to consume anyway, may as well offer them a safe setting to take action. Is it possible to see the false impression? If not, the theory should be reasonable, right?

I am certain you see the flaw - it really is banned for those aged under twenty one to consume alcohol period! Not only can't they drink, but there are laws against you (even if you are of legitimate age group) buying them alcohol. Generally in most us states, the ticket is $1,000 and 1 year of prison, so you might need to remember that before making your first move.

If you can find any severe implications from that purchase, the purchaser of alcohol could possibly be in a complete pile of trouble. Should somebody perish or become critically injured or die as a result of consuming alcohol purchased by an adult, that grownup might be charged with misbehavior of a minor (if perhaps under eighteen) and even wrongful death.

Idaho Worries

You could have the tendency to consider that in Nampa Idaho the situation is not really that serious and mothers and fathers should start acting appropriately as well. Right after a high number of large house parties in which numerous teens were identified to be consuming alcohol encouraged the police in Nampa just lately carried out a sting operation to find out where all the booze was originating from. Investigators originally had been prepared to closed the liquor store that should be liable.

Teens Talk

Right after a long investigation and some powerful police work, they came to understand there were no actual institutions selling alcoholic beverages to underage drinkers. The authorities prevailed to charge several teens for minor possession (MIP). Scared teenagers had no issue divulging how they obtained the booze.

Where did their supply result from - grownups. Police found out that mainly it was the parents or older siblings of the child organizing the celebration. In Nampa, youngsters as young as 13 were being admitted to hospitals suffering from alcohol poisoning.

Any parent or grownup over the age of 21 found acquiring alcoholic beverages for an under-aged consumers confronts a minimum $500 fine in Idaho, and that region is vowing to crack down on this process by recommending prison time for even first-time culprits.

It's no use to be a friend, be a mother or father!

During the 1960s and 70s raising a child was not so stringent because they were no dangers around. Those who partook in the ages of totally free love, flowing alcohol consumption and lighted marijuana cigarettes may have been many things before they had kids, but many, if not all halted their careless behavior after becoming mothers and fathers themselves.

Today's mothers and fathers seem so caught up in being their child's buddy and getting their kid's approval that they're stooping to some asinine levels - like offering alcohol for their youngsters.

Act as a parent not a pal, and do not inspire your child in illegitimate activities.. Now it's your time to act like a supportive father or mother by doing your job adequately! If you are in Texas, consider Texas Minor in Possession Classes!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Coming home and having several beers might be soothing, right? Being a coordinator for online awareness classes I normally try to discuss with my pupils about the calming feeling of alcohol consumption; it usually enables them to reduce anxiety and it's a subject matter you have to pay attention to as well. The simple truth is, individuals who drink seldom and they love to get pleasure from their glass of wine, feel more relaxed.. Do you feel this way?

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

This famous saying is quite intriguing to speak about, considering that even a book was printed on this topic. If alcohol consumption and illegal drugs are not your thing, then you may not realize what I am about to point out.

The "small stuff' are the activities you engage in, like walking your dog and having to pay your expenses. Commencing these tasks is not nerve-racking at all. To addicts, even simple chores like these become main pain.

A New Idea

In my talks with my pupils who could be hooked on illegal drugs and or alcohol, this is a truism which hits their very core. A lot of people, such as my college students hooked on alcohol consumption, think about alcohol as a strain crusher.

I do hope you understand that precisely the contrary is correct - alcohol consumption is a tension causer!

Alcohol leads to stress on any degree. Simply by knowing that you're an alcoholic will cause tension. Possibly they're concealing their drinking dilemma from their manager. Others might feel the need to ensure that it stays a secret right in front of their close friends and loved ones. Without a doubt, covering a drink, which almost everybody who has a drinking problem does at some time in their life - is incredibly stressful!

Back to the Small Stuff

Leaving behind the fact that you have to hide your addiction, the real stress in your alcoholism . Mail can stack up triggering simple expenses to be late and have a late payment recharged. Tension is also triggered when money is a difficulty.

Your called. You know But you generally say that you'll give her a call in the afternoon. Then it will become the next day and therefore the tension accumulates. Then she phone calls once more and you've got to say I'm sorry.As a result of alcoholism you will feel that burdened and stressed.

Perform the simple Tasks

My very best advice for you is to attempt to overcome your habit. Don't turn into a puppet of alcohol addiction! The best way of course is not to take part in whatever your dependency is so that you could fully enjoy your life. Addictions, no matter what they are, will draw you away from many crucial aspects of your life.

Take steps now while you still can. Don't let the mail stack up. Don't leave unreturned phone calls stay unreturned permanently. I assure you, that by taking hold and dealing with these seemingly menial jobs quickly your anxiety levels will reduce and you will feel better about yourself.

Alcoholic beverages is a junk and a poison. In case you or a loved one is affected with a drinking or perhaps drug difficulty, please seek out help right away. If you're too ashamed of your issue, there are online alcohol drug classes you can participate in. Hence, you will get the help necessary to get rid of your addiction permanently.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Parents Should be Aware of Their Minor Children's Drinking

As a counselor for both alcohol drug classes as well as minor in possession (MIP) classes I usually ask my youthful college students where they attained the alcohol consumption they consumed prior to getting in danger. In a remarkably large number of instances, I would declare probably 10% said their parents bought it for them.

What is happening in this country? Are parents forgetting that they must be a parent? There should be a zero-tolerance for parents acquiring alcohol for their youngsters, and it's even more difficult that many even purchase it so their child can drink with pals.

Sound or Mistaken Theory

The theory behind mothers and fathers or grownups buying alcoholic beverages for youngsters is that they will certainly drink anyway, may as well provide them a secure surroundings to take action. Can you notice the misconception? If not, the theory must be sound, correct?

The flaw can be simply spotted, particularly because youngsters under 21 must not consume alcohol. For starters, they cannot withstand consuming and you might additionally get punished for purchasing the alcoholic beverages for the kids, even if you have the authorized age. Nearly all states have a fine of up to $1,000 and as much as a year of incarceration.

If you can find any extreme implications from that acquisition, the buyer of alcoholic beverages might be in a whole pile of trouble. If a minor is significantly injured or drops dead because of excessive drinking, the one who bought the alcohol might be faced with manslaughter or delinquency of a minor.

Idaho Worries

You may have the inclination to think that in Nampa Idaho the issue is not that critical and parents should begin acting accordingly as well. Numerous times, in Nampa the authorities came across numerous house parties with under aged children consuming alcohol. The authorities began to investigate and discover who was in charge of the booze. In the beginning, detectives wished to close the liquor shop in charge of offering alcoholic beverages to under aged youngsters.

Teens Chat

Yet because youngsters like to chat, they soon pointed out that there was no liquor shop giving alcohol to youngsters. The police succeeded to arrest a few adolescents for minor possession (MIP). Frightened teenagers had no problem divulging how they came about the booze.

Their main source-grownup people. Law enforcement officials found out that primarily it was the parents or older brothers and sisters of the kid hosting the bash. In Nampa, youngsters as small as 13 were being admitted to hospitals suffering from alcohol poisoning.

In Idaho the fee for purchasing alcohol consumption for under aged children is $500; nevertheless, cops are thinking about recommending prison time for anyone in charge.

It's really no use to be a buddy, be a mother or father!

Throughout the 1960s and seventies raising a child wasn't so rigid simply because they were no risks around. Nonetheless, that age was also filled with alcohol drinking, cannabis cigarettes and free love, a fact that made men and women end their clumsy behavior and care more for their kids.

Today's parents seem so caught up in being their kid's good friend and getting their kid's authorization that they're stooping to some asinine stages - like providing alcoholic beverages for their children.

Try to be parent not a pal, and do not encourage your child in illegitimate pursuits.. Now it's your time to become a supportive parent by performing your job properly! Consider alcohol awareness classes for yourself to learn more!

Monday, August 15, 2011

What's a Functional Alcoholic?

Currently being a teacher for in class and also online alcohol awareness classes I generally get to the subject matter of "precisely what is a functional alcoholic" with just about all my students. Generally students believe that the matter is amusing and they mock me rearing their hands saying, "right here man"! But this is a critical issue.

What's the real definition for "Functional" Alcoholic?

Any time one thinks of an "alcoholic", often the impression generated in your mind is one of a "bum" on the road surviving in a cardboard box behind a dumpster. Common opinions of alcoholics generally make individuals consider that they're not civilized and that they are unworthy affiliates of society.

Even though you will find 1000's of alcoholics all around the region like the ones identified above, the vast majority of alcoholics are around - pushing their shopping trolley in the grocery store, working with domestic plumbing concerns, picking up the mail and driving near regular people all through the city!

However just what is a "functional" alcoholic? For starters, we have to mention the simple fact that alcohol is a crucial element in these people's lives. Whether you like it or not, but alcohol is significant to them. These individuals have turned to alcohol for comfort simply because they can't deal with real life concerns like work complications, obligations and so forth. They can continue to do their jobs, consume alcohol and survive - for now.

To conclude, a functional alcoholic is an individual who drinks a lot but at the same time struggles to maintain a "functional" way of living. - These individuals currently have social lifestyles, children, households and although they drink, their every day life is nonetheless functional.

Be mindful - You Can Only Perform For So Long!

Unfortunately for these "functional alcoholics", alcohol is a insightful drug and alcoholism is a gradual disease. Despite the fact that they will manage to function all right for quite a while, ultimately alcohol will get the best of them. As this occurs, functional alcoholics will start to lose things that are very important to them - their jobs, loved one, family and friends - along with their health!

A Terrifying Confrontation

As their alcoholism advances their health and their lives will commence to unravel. They'll be compelled to confront alcohol as the demon inducing the problems in their lives. From personal experience, I can tell you this truly is a frightening scenario.

From knowledge with my very own problems and also counseling 1000s of other people in my alcohol awareness classes, I can tell you for certain that many alcoholics are fully aware of their situation; all they desire is to have the capacity to handle that need for alcohol prior to recognizing that they are alcoholics. Furthermore, I'm also able to let you know that these individuals are frightened to give their affliction to their children later in life.

Time for you to Confront the Devil!

You already know the line that says that you'll never escape from the things you are mostly afraid of. You have to remember that unless you deal with the addiction you'll end up lifeless! Despite the fact that it may appear rough but this is the genuine truth.. You must look for help or eventually your overall health and your life will be sacrificed to alcoholism.

You mustn't allow that to occur to you. You can merely perform for so long prior to losing every little thing. So if you choose to survive - search for help.

In case you or a loved one has an alcohol disorder, I advise you to find assistance straight away. There are cultural groups like Alcoholics Anonymous that are free of charge and provide assistance. In case you would rather sustain your very own privacy there are web based alcohol and drug classes that will help get you started out.

Monday, May 9, 2011

Finding a Great North Carolina Alcohol Awareness Class

If you are looking for an alcohol class and are in the state of North Carolina, here’s a useful list of resources for you:

Friday, April 22, 2011

Good Relationships Can Help with Alcohol Addiction

Frequently when I am teaching an alcohol class I ask students to reflect on their drinking. I want them to think about going beyond their historical drinking patterns, but look at their personal happiness at each stage as well. Has drinking improved your happiness over time?

What is Your Level of Happiness?

This sounds like an easy question, but is it easily answered? Don't forget this significant fact - alcoholic beverages are depressants. While some will feel a burst of energy when they have a drink or two, they will eventually come down as alcohol actually causes the central nervous system to slow down. Drinking over a long period of time will increase this effect and can cause irreversible damage to the central nervous system.

Chances are if you are reading this and you are a heavy drinker, you are not happy. While your alcohol consumption may not be the only reason for your lack of happiness, it surely isn't helping the situation.

Bumming You Out

it's worth repeating, alcohol is a depressant. Having instructed alcohol awareness classes, and having attended hundreds of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, I can tell you that excessive drinking is most assuredly a contributing factor to the big D - depression.

There is no pill that will remove an alcoholic's depression as it is driven by extremely negative emotions - anger, guilt and self-loathing. It's a inescapable cycle of bad feelings, continued drinking and very bad decisions.

Regardless of what the popular perception is, problem drinkers mostly don't deny their problem. Though they are able to justify their behavior too will suffer from alcoholism or have some other type of addiction. How do you think that makes them feel?

Relationships with Others are Vital

Do you have many people you feel intimate with? I don't mean superficially. I am talking about close personal contacts, friends and family, who you feel bonded to. Once again, the odds the more you are involved in drinking, the less people you are close to. I don't care how many people have friended you on Facebook; I am talking about in person interaction.

Daily phone contact voice-to-voice is a great way to bond people. Twitter and Facebook are superficial and provide only a tiny bit of positive emotional or psychological bonding with other people.

Personal relationships, building lasting physical, mental, spiritual and emotional ties is what being alive is all about. As alcoholism progresses it makes those who are involved with it disconnect themselves from real living falling into alcoholism induced psychological and emotional inertia.

Redeem Your Life and Redevelop Relationships

I encourage each of you who reads this to assess your relationships. Consider those people you feel close to now, were close with recently and have virtually lost contact with over the years.

If you were ever close to these people, and you have fond memories of them odds are they have similar thoughts and feelings about you. If you remember a happy time associating with them, or you made a strong personal bond at one point, there is definitely the spark to relight that connection fire.

Many heavy drinkers, who suffer from guilt and anger over their drinking problems and their life really end up with very low self-worth. Reconnecting with those who you felt positive about being around will not only help you see the good person you once were, but make you feel and believe you can again be a good person. And if you need help getting through your alcohol addiction, you should seriously consider alcohol awareness classes.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Alcohol Classes Come in All Shapes and Sizes

Often when clients contact me looking for an alcohol awareness class, they aren’t sure the length of class they should take. Our alcohol classes, for example, come in 8 hour, 16 hour and 24 hour lengths. They are also called our Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 classes.

Which is the best for you?

If you are a client who is coming because of a mandated hour or session alcohol awareness class requirement… let’s say from your work or from a a court then you should find out from them what the requirement is. That makes your option very simple.

But if you are taking an alcohol awareness class that has no specified hour or session requirement or taking the class for a personal reason, then with luck I can help you find the right alcohol class length.

8 Hour Class - The Starting Point

At a minimum you should look at a course which is 8 hours in length This is the shortest class that will really give you a good comprehension of the issues around alcohol and it’s impact on you, your friends and relatives and your community as a whole. A course like this can really cover all the important subjects including:

Problems and patterns of alcohol abuse
Learning about how alcohol works
Understanding how specific drugs work
Legal vs. illegal drugs
Impact of DUI on you and your community
Ideas for how to end dependency
And many others

Once you begin your study of alcohol awareness, you’ll learn there’s a lot more to it than just learning about the basics of Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). So an eight hour class will give you a pretty good look of all the topics. On the other hand it’s mainly a survey of these subjects and won’t give you the full in-depth look that the longer courses will.

16 Hour Class – Getting Deeper

With the Sixteen hour alcohol class you really jump up in the depth of the subject matter. There are not more topics, but a more in depth study at each topic. Plus there are a lot more examples and vignettes. You might find this class to be easier because the examples and stories make the study a bit more restful. as an alternative of having to learn subject after subject in the 8 hour format, you can see lots of different examples of each subject matter. For example in our sixteen hour course, we have more personal interviews with the victims of DWIs so you can really learn more about the personal impact driving under the influence has on the community.

24 Hour Class

The 24 hour alcohol awareness class goes even deeper than the 16 hour class. Like the 16 hour class in comparison to the 8 hour alcohol class there are more examples, more photos and more in-depth understanding of the topics Taking this Level 3 alcohol class means you will really come away with a thorough understanding of the subject matter. Sure it’s a greater commitment, but of you’ve had a serious problem with drinking or maybe are a repeat offender, then this is the best course for you.

Still Unsure?

If you are undecided as to which course to take, we recommend contacting Online Alcohol Class for a free consultation.

Monday, April 11, 2011

How to Find the Best Alcohol Awareness Class

Students frequently call me wanting to know where to find a good alcohol awareness classes. They are looking for both a quality alcohol class and one which will meet their requirements.

I try to answer their questions as best I can. The first thing I want to know is what their requirements are for an alcohol awareness class. Often they they have no idea because like most people, they've never had to take an alcohol awareness class before.

The next thing I want to know is are they trying to satisfy a court requirement, DUI requirement or personal requirement? If they are mandated to take an alcohol class for a court requiement or because of a DUI, they should check if there's a list of classes that are certified. If the court doesn't mention a particular class, then I usually suggest that they think about an online alcohol class. I let them know if they aren't sure to call the court for clarification.

The next thing is how to figure out the quality of the course. I let them know that they need to look for a reputable class that was created by experts and sounds legit. This is evident when you check out their internet presence to see and by contacting them over the phone or by email. An good sign of a high quality class is one which comes with a 100% guarantee for any reason. Don't accept an alcohol education program that forces the student come up with some "proof" that the class isn't accepted. Accepting what you say should be enough reason.

A program that has a human that responds in a straightforward manner to any inquiries is an important piece of information. The other thing to ask for is a course summary to determine the topics that are discussed. Some courses spend more time telling you that you are a bad person than explaining about alcohol awareness. Or some gloss over the materials or appear to be shoddily put together by cutting and pasting content from the internet. It's important to stay away from classes like this!

The last thing people ask is whether to take an in-person or online alcohol class. The choice is really up to the person's preference. classroom classes are good for people who like interacting and being around other people and don't mind having to go to the same class at the same time each week. Online alcohol awareness classes are much better for somebody who prefers to take the class on their own time and don't want the inconvenience of committing to the times of in person courses. Online alcohol classes are frequently much cheaper than classroom classes, so it's a great way to save money.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Online Alcohol Class Starts New Blog

A sister site of ours, Online Alcohol Class has started its own Alcohol Awareness Blog which will discuss many problems and current topics associated with drinking and alcoholism. Please take the time to check out this informative blog!

We welcome suggests for blog posts that you might be interested in!

Monday, February 7, 2011

Stop Denying Your Drinking Problem

Generally when I teach alcohol awareness classes I question my students, “Do you think you have a drinking problem?” This series of articles will discuss what constitutes a “problem” and recognize that your social drinking has turned into a problem-drinking habit. It will also talk about 3 stages of change – denial, anger, and acceptance. Finally, we will talk about strategies for stopping drinking and preventing a return to drinking patterns.

Let’s begin by stating that no person has one drink and immediately it is a problem. Heavy drinking and alcoholism are developed over long periods of time.

How people in my class answer this question may be shocking to you. But first, let’s take a look at what defines heavy drinking and briefly talk about problematic alcohol consumption patterns.

How Many Drinks Do You Consume Weekly? Daily?

As a reformed alcoholic and graduate of an online alcohol class, I first became aware that there possibly was a problem when I read an fascinating question on a new patient form at my primary care physician It read, "What quantity of alcoholic beverages do you consume every week?” The query itself seems innocent enough. The multiple-choice answer was “A. 0. B. 1-3. C. 4-6. D. More than 6." I had to read the question again to recognize if they weren’t really asking per day.

At that point in my life, still 24 months before I became sober, I was having at least 7 alcoholic beverages per day. Whether shots of hard alcohol,glasses of wine, or beer, I was most definitely in the “D” category – but every day.

That was my original lightening rod of truth, where I really figured out, for a few tiny moments, that I might very well have a drinking problem – and that I was an alcoholic.

Are You a Heavy Drinker?

Heavy drinking is a pattern of alcohol consumption found in almost all alcoholics. Heavy drinking is defined as having five or more alcoholic beverages at one time five or more times in a month period.
As a reformed alcoholic, I can tell you that almost every time I partook in the consumption of alcohol, I had at least 5 drinks – usually many more.

Recent statistics show that approximately 17 million U.S. residents are classified as heavy drinkers. That is almost 7% of the entire population 12 and older. If you only pay attention to people who can legally drink almost 12% are heavy drinkers.

If you think your are a heavy drinker, it's quite likely you are an alcoholic and should seek help from a group like Alcoholics Anonymous, or in some cases try taking an online alcohol awareness course.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Why Does the Super Bowl Focus so Much on Drinking?

As a counselor for alcohol awareness classes I am very familiar with the part alcohol plays in our community and is meshed in our culture. My aim in teaching about alcohol is trying to get my students to get more educated about alcohol and its effect on the human body. I try to make them understand about drinking and its effects on not only your body, but in addition those close to a person addicted to alcohol.
At this time of year I always believe about another type of "alcohol awareness" - the powerful pitch to advertise alcohol during the Super Bowl. The ads from Budweiser, Coors, and Heineken have become to many, more important from a viewing standpoint than the game itself. When people think "Super Bowl" they think football, television ads and alcohol - and not necessarily in that order.

Let's All Drink to the Super Bowl

Nobody should be surprised that "Super Bowl Sunday" ranks right up with the 4th of July and December 31 as the days where the most people are arrested for drinking and driving.
In one of my recent alcohol classes I polled each person in my class if they drank during the Super Bowl, and if they drank how much they consumed. The results probably don't shock you. Out of twenty students, 90% had drank alcohol during last year's Super Bowl. The couple that didn't - one was working and the other had pneumonia.

A Super Binge

Of the rest who had consumed alcoholic beverages, according to their recollection, during the Super Bowl they averaged 8 beverages each. Of course they said that the Super Bowl lasts forever and most of them were sure that they were sober enough to drive by the end of the game. Almost half of the 18 admitted to being intoxicated during the game. One feel asleep before the final whistle.

Super Bowl DUI

Only one of my students that session was attending class to handle a Super Bowl DWI, but throughout the years many of my students were requred to take an alcohol awareness class from a DWI obtained after watching the Super Bowl.

Avoid becoming a statistic. I urge all of you to make sure you have a designated driver for the Super Bowl if you plan on consuming alcoholic beverages. Remember, a cab is ALWAYS cheaper than a DUI.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

How Can You Tell When Your Drinking Has Become a Problem

Often when I run alcohol classes clients ask me, "How how can you find out if you are an alcoholic?" Let's look at some crucial indicators that your regular drinking habit has turned into full-blown alcoholism.

Let's commence by asserting that no person has 1 drink of alcohol and it instantly it becomesa problem. Heavy drinking and drinking problems are developed over long periods of time. Of course the span of time will differ from person to person.

Your Genes Can Play A Role

And as is the case with numerous health problems, genetics play an crucial role. If one or more of your mother and father or other close relatives is an alcoholic you as well may have a genetic predisposition toward alcoholism. However, even though your parents may be alcoholics, there is no reason you also must endure this illness.

Deciding not to drink is personal. It is a decision in which your genes have no say.Deciding not to consume in excess is also personal.

You have the capability and control over what you do. Even if you do not believe you have an issue, I ask you to re-think your drinking.

Are You a Heavy Drinker?

Excess drinking is a pattern of drinking seen in almost all alcoholics. Heavy drinking is defined as having five or more alcoholic beverages on the same occasion five or more instances in the past month.
Being a recovering alcoholic, I can certainly tell you that almost every time I partook in the drinking of alcohol, I had five or more drinks - normally a lot more.

Recent data has shown that around 17 million U.S. residents can be defined as heavy drinkers. That's practically 7% of everybody 12 and older If you only look at those of legal drinking age, 21, almost 12% are considered to fall into the pattern of heavy drinking.

If you drink heavily it is quite likely you have a drinking problem and should seek help from a group like Alcoholics Anonymous, or if you prefer, try taking an online alcohol awareness course.

Are You Embarrassed by Your Drinking?

Even with commonpublic perception, most heavy drinkers feel shame or guilt about their heavy drinking and alcoholic tendencies. Even when they are in the beginning stages of alcoholism, while they still deny themselves that they are addicted to alcohol, drinkers feel guilty.

They also tend to become embarassed in front of their friends,their family and their work colleagues, because of their behaviors after getting drink. Perhaps it is getting a DWI, or just making a total ass of themselves due to their drunken state.

Again, if you feel ashamed by the amount you drink or how often you drink, it is critical you think about whether or not you are an alcoholic The odds are, you do.

What Have You Got to Hide?

Many problem drinkers are what we term "closet alcoholics." This group tends to hide their drinking from as many people as they can. They may only go to bars far away from their homes and work. Or they may prefer to drink just in the privacy of their own home. Some problem drinkers go to extreme measures to disguise their addiction to alcohol. Alcoholics have been known to keep a container hidden in their office drawer for a quick shot in their latte. Some conceal a flask in their automobile or closet. A surprising number of alcoholics go so far as to fill water or 7 Up bottles with vodka.

Seriously, if you are a "closet alcoholic" and exhibit any of the symptoms listed above, I suggest you look for help immediately Finally, I challenge each of you to stop drinking for 30 days. Check if it helps you to feel better. Be aware of your moods, good and bad (you may exerience signifant mood shifts).
It is essential to be aware that alcohol is a drug and its use must be controlled. If you or anyone you know may be suffering from alcohol dependence, please have them seek help immediately. You can learn more by taking an alcohol awareness class.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

What to Do When Your Teenager Drinks

Among the many nightmares that parents encounter is catching your teenager has been drinking. This might have happened when you smell alcohol on their breath after they came home from a date. Or possibly it's actually catching them drinking at a party, or in your basement Sometimes another mother or father will contact you saying they caught your teen drinking with theirs. It could even be the horrible situation where you are contacted by the police who have captured your kids drinking, or even worse drinkingand driving. When you learn that your child has been drinking it can elicit several distinct responses. Some teen parents are afraid and confused. "How could Bobby have started consuming alcohol? I thought this was a nurturing home". Others are indignant. "I TOLD Will what would happen to him if I found him with alcohol!" And others encounter denial. "It must be Tammy's friends. They're the ones at fault!"

But irrespective of the reaction, once you find out that your child is a drinker it's time to put being afraid, indignant, or acting as if it isn't happening away and start working on with the issue. The first action is to develop a plan. The plan is composed of 3 different parts: when, what and follow-through.

When

The when means that you act once your plan is determined AND you are ready to confront them. You don't want to have your confrontation with your teen when your emotions are out of control. It is crucial you deal with them in a rational manner. The same goes for their state of mind. Don't deal with them if they are drunk or high. Wait until they sleep it off. After you wait their emotional reaction will be something you can deal with.

But although you do want to wait for the "right moment" to speak to your teen, you also shouldn't wait too long. You ought to plan on having your dialogue with them within 1 day of your finding out.

What

Your next task is to create your plan of what you are going to say and do. In general this should fall in the following categories:

Letting them know the rules and penalties of drinking. Particularly tell him or her the consequences they face today and the punishments they will receive if they break the new rules. For example, if the punishment is taking away the cell phone for 6 months you might tell them that if they do it again will add an additional 3 months to the losing their phone.
Telling them that they are going to be carefully monitored. Frequent calls, stricter curfew restrictions, a GPS tracker on their auto and drug testing are all potential ways to more strictly monitor their activities.
Tell them the help they are going to receive for their drinking problem. This may perhaps include one-on-one or group counseling. This can include a minor in possession class or minor in consumption class. Or perhaps visiting your church's pastor. Make sure they know this aspect isn't about punishment but about understanding the problem and helping to learn how to prevent it in the future.
Telling them there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Tell them that you love them and this isn't a everlasting black mark on their record. If things go well you can once again have a joyful close family.

Follow Through

Finally, you need to plan your long-term goals What I mean is to make sure all you tell your child is something you are going to really do. Make sure you follow through on your steps once you tell them. And if you feel you need support, perhaps counseling such as an alcohol class will help.Parents need support to deal with hard circumstances such as these.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Maryland Alcohol Awareness Classes

Some people say it's hard to find a legitimate Maryland Alcohol Awareness Class. Here are some definite options for you:

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Colorado Alcohol Classes

Finding an alcohol awareness class that works in Colorado can be very difficult. Fortunately here are some resources to help:

Monday, January 10, 2011

Another Taxi Ride to Avoid Being Arresting for Drinking and Driving

As a counselor for alcohol awareness classes, I always inquire of my students how come they didn't choose to call a cab instead of choosing to risk their lives and the lives of others by driving while intoxicated What percentable of them regarded taking a taxi or phoning somebody to pick them up and take them home? Think about that for a minute. Do you think most do? Most people? Some People?

Probably Not Going to Pass

The answer should surprise you - about ten percent. That means nine out of ten never considered alternative transportation. In this day and age, with so much cash invested toward promoting education and punishing behavior, why do so few not think of this? Following is a genuine account from one of my students in my alcohol awareness class.

Dustin's Story

Dustin and his older brother , Curtis, hadn't gotten together in nearly 10 years. Like many brothers these guys were really quite different. While Dustin was shy and reserved, a control freak, while his brother lived wild and care free. In fact, Dustin was picking his brother up at the bus station as Curtis had just been released from jail.

Their first stop was a local bar, because Curtis needed to "get ripping drunk." Regrettably for Curtis, neither sibling had much money and they were forced to leave after a couple of drinks, with Dustin promising more drinks at home. Dustin's wife, Sherri, had made dinner and all three continued to drink a several beers each and three bottles of wine with dinner. In spite of the fact that Curtis had drunk almost 2 bottles himself, Dustin was feeling the effects and passed out on the couch while his companions continued to chug the inexpensive wine.

When the clock struck midnight he was awakened by Curtis, who was asking for the keys to the car. Apparently, they had exhausted their supply of alcohol and Sherri and Curtis were making an alcohol and fast food run.

Alcohol-Impaired Decision

One significant effect alcohol is to alter the decision-making process. While Dustin thought he had "slept-off" the effects of alcohol on his body, and that he was just feeling "different" because he had been awakened in the middle of his REM cycle of sleep, he made an "alcohol-induced decision."

Ever-the responsible one, Dustin refused to give his brother the keys to the car as his honey and brother were totally intoxicated. After much pleading, and drinking two energy drinks, Dustin said he would drive. The three of them hopped into Dustin's Ford Escort and headed to the convenience store where they bought a case of beer and a box of Franzia wine, Sherri's favorite.

After a quick stop at Taco Bell they were driving back to the house. Beer cans littered the back seat as Curtis continued to put back Budweiser like a man dying of thirst. Three blocks from home Curtis panicked as he saw the red and blue lights of a police car in his rearview mirror.

Acting Like A Dopamine - Alcohol's Minion

When the policeman walk up to the car Dustin asked, "Was I driving too fast, sir?" The officer directed his flashlight into the vehicle and observed the empty beer cans in the back of the car. He asked Dustin if he had been drinking that night. Dustin confessed to having some beer and wine with dinner, but that was many hours earlier. The officer asked Dustin to step out of his vehicle.

The officer advised him there had been a distinct odor of alcohol in the car and Dustin tried to clarify that his brother had been drinking and he was very sorry. Regardless the policeman conducted a field sobriety test that he surprisingly passed. He then requested Dustin to submit to a Breathalyzer test.

Feeling confident after his success with the field sobriety test. So he agreed. His blood-alcohol-level was almost twice the legal limit. Dustin was immediately arrested.

The other two were completely drunk and unable to drive, and they had spent all their money on alcohol and food. They both spent the night in the drunk tank with Dustin, but were allowed to go home once they had sobered up the next day. Dustin wasn't nearly as lucky. He got to spend a full 48 hours behind bars.

High Costs of a DUI

Following his conviction of driving while intoxicated (DWI) Dustin was required to take an alcohol class. His legal costs, increased insurance premiums and fines ended up costing Dustin almost seven thousand dollars.

I asked Dustin if he had thought of getting a cab to take them to the store and to get late-night munchies. He and the rest of the class burst out in laughter. Not one of my students ever had considered taking a taxi from their own home to go buy alcohol or fast food.

Perhaps, after reading this story, you will consider this option.

Alcohol is a serious drug and should be used rationally. If you, or anyone you know, suffer from an alcohol problem, it is important to seek help immediately. There are groups like Al-Anon and Alcoholics Anonymous. There also are both classroom and online alcohol awareness classes available.