Alcohol Awareness Classes Can Change Your Life

I like to think that I am a responsible person. I go to work every day and I pay my bills on time. I don't lie or cheat or steal. I stay drug free and healthy except that I consider myself a wine connoisseur . I love studying wine, drinking wine, talking about wine, shopping for wine, tasting wine, etc. But now, I do it very responsibly and cautiously. I never drink and drive and hire a taxi service in advance if I go out. I don't let my friends drink and drive either. I will pay for their taxi if necessary, to keep them safe.

Throughout my twenties I was a bartender and I drank a lot more hard liquor. I never considered my drinking to be a big deal until I was arrested for a DUI. Part of my fine was to complete an online alcohol class. I was so ashamed that I took the 30 hour course.  I wasn't looking forward to it thinking it would be preachy and boring.

However, to my surprise it was exactly the opposite. I learned so many things that I never knew before, and it inspired me to look at my drinking behavior. In some ways I am glad I got that DUI. It changed my life for the better and I was spared a far worse experience.

Be Safe when You Choose to Drink Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is a normal part of daily life for people in most countries. Sipping wine with dinner, toasting champagne at a wedding, and sharing a beer with some friends can be positive ways to use alcohol. In fact, alcohol is okay as long as you are being responsible when using it.

If you are not careful however, alcohol can be dangerous. Many irresponsible alcohol imbibers end up in serious legal trouble or even worse, in a car crash. Others need to attend an alcohol awareness class so that they learn about the full impact drinking has on their lives and the lives of innocent victims they may accidently come into contact with.

If you are not sure how responsible you are, try taking an online alcohol class. These classes are inexpensive, easy, and convenient to take. You will learn so much about the impact your drinking has on yourself and those around you. You will be amazed to learn how hard alcohol is on your body and how easily it is to drive while intoxicated. You hear from victims as well as offenders to get a picture of the full affect DUI has on individuals, families, communities and society at large.

Such a class may help encourage you take your drinking more seriously including cutting back on the amount of alcohol you consume or being so careful to drink responsibly.

How an Alcohol Awareness Class Helped Me

When I was younger, I started to drink quite a bit. My drinking really picked up in college, and I blacked out regularly. I thought it was cool, to not be able to remember an entire evening. Then I started to get in trouble because of my drinking. I was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), which I didn't think was so cool, and wound up losing a job I really liked because of my drinking. My girlfriend dumped me and told me I was a loser.

My drinking began spiraling out of control and I got my third DUI. Not only did I lose my license for a year, but I had to take an alcohol awareness class.

At the time I was in survival mode, just trying to get through the day so to speak but honestly, I really learned a lot. I reminded me of my Dad who was an alcoholic and whose life was empty. I decided I didn't want to be a drunk and that I would stop drinking entirely.

It has taken a lot of endurance and strength to change by behaviors, but I have been clean for almost a year now, and I am much happier and life feels better. 

Make Money Faster by Taking an Alcohol Awareness Class

How, you might ask, does learning about alcohol, drugs and addiction possibly turn into a way to make yourself money? Seems more like a waste of time, doesn't it?

Well the truth of the matter is that if you have a problem with alcohol and drugs, you are probably spending a lot of time with those activities (being high, drunk or hungover) than you are trying to better yourself. The great thing about a drug and alcohol awareness class is that you will learn about the harmful effects that drugs and alcohol have on your body (including the brain). You will also be given techniques to stop drinking and using drugs.

Once you have shrugged the drug and alcohol demon off your back you are free to focus on what you really want to do. Not only will you save money that is not being spent on alcohol and drugs, but you will open yourself to your true goals and ambitions. That is your personal success and the ability to make money for yourself!

Information About Alcohol Awareness Classes

Alcohol classes can be found online and in formal classroom settings. The type of setting that an individual chooses will often depend on their personal preference and situation. The information that is contained in these alcohol classes will provide the student with information about how alcohol affects them personally, how it affects their family and friends as well as the community as a whole.

Although many people may not realize all of the consequences surrounding the abuse of alcohol, these classes can concentrate on the details of what occurs when alcohol is being misused. The effects of alcohol can range from the person having anger management problems when under the influence to drunk driving, which is the cause of many fatalities.

These classes are also promoted on college and university campuses since common social trends involve large amounts of students drinking heavily at parties and other types of social events.

Alcohol Awareness Class Helped My Son

I'm ashamed to admit that my 18 year old son was recently caught drinking and driving. Not only was he caught driving while under the influence, he's also too young to be drinking legally. I was so distraught at first, that I truly didn't know what to do.

I was angry because I had taught him all about the dangers of drinking and driving and hoped he wouldn't be drinking until he turned 21. Thankfully, the court ordered him to take an alcohol awareness class, and to my surprise, it really hit home. It opened his eyes to how many deaths are caused per year by people who drink and get behind the wheel of a car. He stopped feeling invincible and awoke to how lucky he was that he didn't get hurt.

He is truly ashamed of what he did, and I am pretty convinced that he will never drink and drive again. I am grateful the online class he took helped him learn an important lesson. He's my son and I'll always love him, but he did a very bad and dangerous thing.

These Alcohol Awareness Classes Are Teaching Me a Lot

I have been sober for six months since my angry outburst. I was charged with simple assault against people who love me and were trying to intervene in my alcoholism. Now I have to finish alcohol awareness classes as ordered by the sentencing judge to complete this program. If I manage to stay out of trouble for another 18 months after the classes, I will have completed the two years of probation and my record will be expunged.

I made the mistake of falling into the alcohol trap that so many of my relatives before me have fallen into. It is in our genes to be drawn to alcoholism. Every male and many female members in my family tell me that they have to actively choose every day not to drink. The temptation is powerful. It is not an easy road but I do not want to die like my father, uncles, two aunts and grandfather did. All of them died as a result of alcohol induced diseases or accidents.

To my surprise, the alcohol awareness classes are teaching me much more than I expected. I am taking a class online which allows me to go at my own pace. Because it is online, no one is judging me and I don't feel ashamed. It feels good to learn about alcoholism and what I can do to change my life. I especially like the mindfulness work because it has helped me face myself without criticism but greater awareness. Now I am more conscious of my decisions and my behavior.

It is Never Too Late for an Alcohol Class

I am sure you have heard the saying "better late than never." This most certainly is true when it comes to taking an alcohol class. Regardless of how much you drink and how far your addiction has progressed, an alcohol class is always a good step in your rehabilitation process.

As a counselor for both in-class and online alcohol classes I see students in every aspect of the spectrum when it comes to drinking.

If you are a teenager just experimenting with alcohol, an alcohol class could be helpful. If you think you may be drinking too much, take an alcohol class. If you know you drink too much but might have doubts as to whether your drinking really is a problem, take an alcohol class.

If you know you are an alcoholic and may not be in denial but are in hiding, take an alcohol class. If you prefer to maintain total anonymity there are online alcohol classes too.

I Need a MIP Class for My Child

As a parent of four teen boys, I expected that sooner or later one of them would get into some type of trouble. I was not prepared, however, to have two of the boys get caught with beer in their trunk. Thank goodness they were not drinking and driving but just having the beer was enough to get them arrested.

My husband and I decided to let them stew overnight in jail. Then, I gave him the privilege of bonding them out. Now, that most of the experience is behind us, they have been ordered to participate in alcohol classes and do some community service to pay back their fines. We found a minor in possession class online. After consulting with the judge and their probation officer, it was agreed that these classes would satisfy the requirement.

I took the class with them for information's sake and found it to be highly educational. The boys have finished and are now off the hook with the legal community. However, now that we are better educated, we will  continue discussing this matter openly at home.

An Alcohol Class is a Great Way to Kick off the New Year

An alcohol class may be right for you at this time of your life. Have you resolved to cut down on your drinking? Maybe you find yourself drinking more than you would like. Is alcohol causing problems for you with your health, at home, or work? Or are you just feeling the need to cut back and "detox" yourself from over indulgence.

An alcohol problem can become an addiction. Both can negatively impact your health, relationships, and goals. Be pro-active and fearless by seeking out help for yourself (even if you don't think you need it). Get educated and armed with information.

If attending an in-person alcohol class is not right for you, then you can consider taking an online alcohol class. With an online class, you may be able to get the assistance you need to fit your own unique personal situation. Why not get the support you need to keep your resolutions strong!

How Alcohol Awareness Classes Taught Me How Not to Destroy Myself

I used to drink now and again when I was younger, but I didn't care for the taste that much. It gradually got to the point where I didn't even go to the bars with my friends. Several months ago, a good friend of mine died and I started drinking again just to make the pain disappear.

I ended up doing some stupid things that got me in trouble with the law. I am so thankful that a judge looked at the cause rather than the effects of my actions. He ordered that I undergo alcohol awareness classes. I was so grateful for this, and I ended up learning a lot about myself in the process.

The online alcohol class helped me understand that it is better to deal with grief than try and bury it in alcohol and destructive behavior. Not only does that not work, but it is not honoring my friend either. I still miss him deeply, but I know he would be proud that I'm longer destroying myself because of him.

An Alcohol Awareness Class Saved Me from Getting Fired

My office has a zero tolerance policy but they offer one time rehabilitation. It wasn't even my normal day to work but I came in to cover a shift for a sick employee. Our time clock system assigns random drug tests and my number was up that morning. I drank a lot the night before and some was still in my system so I tested positive for alcohol.

I need this job and will do whatever it takes to keep it. I had no idea that drinking the night before would still be in my system the following day. I had to take an alcohol awareness class.

I have learned my lesson and won't repeat the same mistake twice. I am grateful and relieved that I wasn't fired.

Being Aware That You Have a Problem with Alcohol

How do you know if you have a problem with alcohol? Alcohol is a prevalent part of our culture and many people drink daily. How would you know if you have a problem or potential problem with alcohol?

If you've ever pondered this question, an 8 hour alcohol awareness class could be exactly what you need.

The rub is, you have to be open to it and self aware but you may also need more information. It isn't easy realizing that you may have an alcohol problem. Too often there are mitigating factors people use to brush away the truth and keep them in denial.

Denial is strong and may prevent you from realizing you are giving yourself the brush off. Instead of seeing yourself clearly, you might look at circumstances and make more excuses. Excuses that sound legitimate and real to you. An online alcohol awareness class can help you break this self destructive habit.

I know because I did it for years. So if you are thinking that you might need some help, but don't think you really need that much, maybe you should try the class. Why not? That way, you'll at least have more  information to assess yourself more honestly.

Maybe an Alcohol Class is All You Need to Stop Drinking

Have you ever been concerned or told that you are drinking too much? If so, more than likely you have a drinking problem. Of course it does not feel like a "problem" because you enjoy it and the rituals surrounding it.

As a recovering alcoholic and a counselor for both in-class and online alcohol classes, I see first-hand the problems that seep into the lives of those who abuse alcohol. I also see the denial that keeps the problems growing and spiraling out of control. Addiction happens over time, it's progressive. Therefore, I always discuss the self-awareness of addictive behavior.

Virtually, all of my students should have some inkling there is a problem when they've been involved in an alcohol-related incident. However, remarkably so, some continue to remain in denial. Many are not ready to look at the power alcohol has over them and their rationalizations to continue drinking. Students blame the problems on their boss, spouse, stress, government, etc. anything to keep them from taking personal responsibility.

However, alcohol classes (either in class or online) help them address their denial. Mostly, since other students who are in the same shoes, confront them. I see people go from serious denial to anger to acceptance in less than 24 hours of alcohol awareness treatment.

If you think you might have a drinking problem, I urge you to take an alcohol awareness class. If you prefer to maintain total anonymity there are online alcohol classes too.

Don't Risk a DUI: Take a Taxi!

Trust me when I tell you that the best $50 you'll ever spend will be on a taxi home after getting drunk. By driving home in a drunken state you are jeopardizing your life and future as well as the lives of others.

Why then do so many people avoid spending the $20-$50 it would cost to take a taxi? As a counselor for both in-class and online alcohol awareness classes I often discuss this principle with my students. Not surprisingly almost all agree they wished they had paid for a cab. They provide interesting excuses including, "I didn't have enough money on me", "I wasn't sure how to call a cab at that hour", "I didn't want to leave my car there over night", and my personal favorite, "I thought I was OK to drive".



At best, drinking and driving can result in a DUI violation which will cost you thousands of dollars. Heavy fines, increased insurance premiums, alcohol classes and counseling are only the tip of the iceberg.

At worst, you can permanently injure yourself or even kill yourself and others due to the "excuses" that allowed you to drink and drive. Imagine how the rest of your life would look if you killed your best friend or another innocent person because you were too cheap to take a cab ride? I have looked into the eyes of people with these stories. The regret and despair are unshakable.

Next time you are out on the town and know you have had too much to drink, please do the most responsible thing and call a taxi. Just think how fun a karaoke cab would be! 

How to Watch Football Without Drinking

Another exciting football season is in full swing.

If you are like me you watch games with a bunch of your friends. There is usually plenty of food and drinks to be had. Beer drinking is very much a part of watching the game. Not to mention the countless high priced commercials for beer.

But what are you going to do if you are trying to cut back on your alcohol intake. Or what if you've decided not to drink alcohol again for the rest of your life. If you've attended an alcohol awareness class you probably learned that it's a good thing to stay away from events or parties where alcohol is being served. But what if you are a huge football fan? What are you expected to do? Just watch the game at home while sipping bottled water?

Here's a few hints on how to handle this situation. First, make sure that you watch the game at somebody's house rather than in a bar. Bars are associated with drinking and if you can avoid them, you've done a good job. Second, tell your host ahead of time that you won't be drinking alcohol. Next, bring a non-alcoholic alternative such as sparkling water, root beer, or sweet iced tea to the game. Finally, make sure that you always have a full non-alcoholic beverage in your hand at the event. That way you never have to worry about somebody offering you a new beer if you're done with your drink.

You can definitely watch football and other sports in the company of your friends without drinking. Just follow these simple tips and you should have no problems. If you feel tempted, there are lots of great online alcohol classes that can help you conquer these situations.

Why Don't Alcohol Advertisers Have to Promote Alcohol Awareness Classes?

It's a known fact that alcohol kills. It causes numerous diseases and sabotages our health. It's also a leading cause of death due to DUIs and other alcohol related accidents. So why don't alcohol advertisers have to promote alcohol awareness classes?

It's not as crazy as it sounds. Cigarette companies also sell a product that causes much harm. It took years of lawsuits and legal wrangling but now they have to pay billions of dollars to state governments. And much of that money goes towards tobacco prevention programs. The theory here is that while the harm in the past can't be prevented, future harm might avoided by educating people.

Likewise, since alcohol can cause such harm, why don't alcohol manufacturers have to do the same sort of preventative education? Why aren't they forced to promote alcohol awareness education and teach people about the risks of alcohol use? Do we have to wait for decades and lawsuits like we did with the cigarette companies?

Take an Alcohol Awareness Class on a Cruise

Most people who go on vacation are just in it to relax and unwind from their busy lives. Maybe they want to sit by the pool and read a book, or to socialize with other vacationers, or maybe they want to do some sightseeing. But there's another thing that you can do when taking a vacation such as a cruise. You can take an alcohol awareness class!

Now it might seem sort of silly to use that time off to learn but it's actually a great option during your downtime. Since an online alcohol awareness class can be taken anywhere with an internet connection (including on a cruise ship), you can spend 30 minutes here or an hour there becoming more educated.

What's more, instead of coming back from your cruise with a sunburn, 15 extra pounds and some cheap memento, you can come back with something far more important. You return home with more knowledge about your drinking problems and what you can do to get better.

Four Things to Keep You Sober

As a counselor for both in-class and online alcohol awareness classes, I have discovered four keys to help my students stay sober. There is no greater goal for an alcohol class than to prevent relapse and recidivism.

By far the most important factor in staying sober is not to have alcohol in the house. There is no way a person with a drinking problem will be able to continually resist the urge to drink if booze is a constant, physical presence in the home. While it may be possible to stop for a while, eventually the mind will relent and you will drink again. Again, the rule is no alcohol beverages in your living quarters.

A second key factor in staying sober is not to associate with people who drink. This includes a spouse or significant other. If you want to stay sober, do not hang around with those who are drinking. At least early on in your sobriety you can't go hang out in bars and try to stay sober. This is just like having booze in the house. Don't tempt yourself. Don't go to parties where alcohol is being served. Don't put yourself in a vulnerable position to relapse.

The third key is to find activities that you can do instead of drinking. This means that instead of watching sports or bowling with friends, where drinking is common, pick something where the participants usually don't drink. Take an evening spin or yoga class, join a rock climbing club or take your pooch to the dog park. These are good examples where drinking isn't an integral part of the activity.

A fourth key is to be open about your drinking problem. Even if you don't want to broadcast your problem to everyone, find at least one person you can share with. You need to be held accountable for your actions. You need someone to share your experience with.

Those four rules plus a good alcohol awareness class form the basic platform necessary to get sober and live an alcohol-free life.

Alcohol Class Could Save You from a Bar Fight

Do you have a story of a friend, family member or colleague who did something stupid while they were heavily intoxicated? I bet you do. Alcohol has different effects on different people, but one thing it has in common with all who drink heavily and get very inebriated is that it causes you to do dumb things.

Have you ever been in a bar-fight? If you have, I bet you were drunk. As a counselor for both in person and online alcohol classes, 100% of my students who admitted to being in a bar fight also admitted drinking heavily at time.

Alcohol decreases inhibitions while simultaneously intensifying our emotions. This is why many people cry or fight while intoxicated. Sometimes they say things too, like how much they love someone, or how much they hate someone. Basically, the truth can come out.

It also increases the tempers of some drinkers. This is the difference between the "happy drunk" and the "bad drunk." The best way to steer clear of a bar fight is to not visit bars and not consume alcohol. If you do go, do not get overly inebriated so that your cooler head will prevail if provoked.