Alcohol Abuse^
Consequences
More likely to engage in violent, dangerous or promiscuous behaviour
Alcohol poisoning, a medical emergency that results from high blood alcohol levels
Injuries, such as motor vehicle crashes, falls, drownings, and burns.
High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems
Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum
Weakening of the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick
Learning and memory problems, including dementia and poor school performance
Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety
Social problems, including family problems, job-related problems, and unemployment
Local/International Trends & Impact on Society
In the US NielsenIQ's data shows the market for nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits grew more than 20% last year — and more than 120% over the last three years. The market now sees almost $400 million in annual sales.
According to Statistics Canada, beer accounts for 69.7% of per capita alcohol consumption, followed by wine (16.9%) and spirits (7.6%). The decline in alcohol consumption has been largely driven by declining demand for beer. In contrast, demand for wine, spirits and other alcoholic beverages has grown, partly offsetting declines in consumption of beer.
Alcohol consumption causes death and disability relatively early in life. In people aged 20–39 years, approximately 13.5% of total deaths are attributable to alcohol.
Alcohol consumption rose in 2020 during the beginning of the pandemic
Beyond health consequences, the harmful use of alcohol brings significant social and economic losses to individuals and society at large.
Resilience & Healthy Choices
Drink water in between alcoholic drinks to help limit the amount of alcohol you consume
The new guidelines recommend people who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding avoid drinking alcohol entirely, even in small amounts.
the CCSA recommends consuming no more than two alcoholic drinks per week
There are many non alcoholic versions of wine, beer and cocktails available now.
Where you can get help
Wayside House of Hamilton, 15 Charlton Avenue West, Hamilton, (905)528-8969
Alcohol Drug & Gambling Services, 21 Hunter St E, Hamilton (905) 546-3606
Fresh Start Clinic, 1440 Main St E, Hamilton, 1(866)840-7474
Alcoholics Anonymous, 627 Main St E Suite 205, Hamilton, (905)522-8392