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Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder: What You Need to Know and Why It Matters

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that involves the inability to stop or control alcohol use despite its negative effects on one's health, relationships, or responsibilities. It is not a lack of willpower - it's a diagnosable disorder that ranges from mild to severe and often develops gradually.


The truth is, alcohol is deeply embedded in our culture - from celebrations to coping - but for many, what starts as casual drinking can evolve into something much more serious.



You don’t have to suffer in silence. This April, let’s break the stigma around alcohol misuse. Help is real. Recovery is possible. You have options—and we’re here to help. #AlcoholAwarenessMonth #AAEW #RecoveryIsPossible #YouAreNotAlone #BreakTheStigma
You don’t have to suffer in silence. This April, let’s break the stigma around alcohol misuse. Help is real. Recovery is possible. You have options—and we’re here to help. #AlcoholAwarenessMonth #AAEW #RecoveryIsPossible #YouAreNotAlone #BreakTheStigma


AUD in African American Communities: What the Numbers Say

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) and SAMSHA, African Americans are less likely than White Americans to report current alcohol use, but those who drink are more likely to experience the negative consequences of alcohol misuse.


Some key stats:


  • Nearly 10% of African American adults have reported alcohol use disorder in the past year.

  • African Americans are more likely to experience health-related impacts of AUD - such as liver disease, heart disease, and high blood-pressure - despite lower overall consumption rates.

  • Barriers like stigma, lack of culturally appropriate treatment, and mistrust of healthcare systems can delay or prevent seeking help.


These disparities are not due to individual failure - they are linked to systematic challenges that require community-based, culturally sensitive solutions.

The Impact of AUD on Health and Relationships AUD doesn't just affect the person drinking - it ripples into every area of life:


Physical Health Long-term alcohol misuse can lead to:

  • Liver damage

  • Increased cancer risk (especially breast, liver, colon)

  • Weakened immune system

  • Stroke and heart problems


Mental Health Alcohol often masks underlying mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Over time, it worsens emotional well-being and increases the risk of suicide.


Family and Relationships AUD can cause tension, mistrust, and emotional disconnection in families. Children in homes with alcohol misuse are more likely to experience trauma and develop behavioral or emotional problems.


Financial and Legal Trouble Job instability, missed responsibilities, or DUI charges are all potential consequences of AUD.


Hope and Healing: Treatment Options That Work

Recovery is real - and it looks different for everyone. The key is knowing that help is available and treatment works.


Here are a few options:

  1. Peer Recovery Coaching AAEW's trained Peer Recovery Coaches provide judgment-free support from someone who's been there. They walk alongside individuals on their recovery journey - helping navigate treatment, triggers, and triumphs.


  2. Outpatient and Inpatient Treatment Depending on the severity of the disorder, a person may benefit from structured treatment programs, including therapy, group support, and medical detox.


  3. Faith and Community Support Faith can be a powerful foundation for recovery. Through AAEW's Faith Partnering Churches, individuals can access supportive environment that combine spiritual encouragement with practical resources.


  4. Support Groups Groups like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), Smart Recovery, and other local programs offer community and accountability.


What Can You Do?

  • Educate yourself and your loved ones about the signs of AUD.

    • Facing difficulties with controlling drinking limits

    • Spending way too much time drinking or recovering from drinking

    • Having strong urges to drink

    • Letting drinking interfere with responsibilities

    • Continuing to drink despite the problems it causes

    • Needing more alcohol to feel its effect (tolerance)

    • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

  • Have honest conversations - without shame - about alcohol use and the desire for change.

  • Refer someone to help - whether through AAEW's Peer Recovery Coaches, Faith Partners or Community Partners.

  • Model healthy coping strategies and create environments of support.


Final Word: You're Not Alone At AAEW, we are committed to ensuring the African American community has access to treatment that is culturally respectful, affordable, and accessible. Whether through a barbershop conversation, a church prayer circle, or a quiet moment of decision at home - recovery begins with awareness.


This Alcohol Awareness Month, let's recognize the reality of AUD - and respond with compassion, knowledge, and action.


Need Help? Contact an AAEW Peer Recovery Coach at 513-748-1958 or 513-838-4935





 
 
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