National Alcohol Screening Day is an important initiative that takes place every year in the United States. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and addiction. By encouraging individuals to get screened, we can detect potential problems in their drinking habits and provide them with the resources they need to make positive changes. It’s essential to spread awareness about the negative impact that alcohol can have on our physical and mental health. By participating in National Alcohol Screening Day, we’re taking a step towards creating a healthier and safer community for everyone.
HISTORY OF ALCOHOL TESTING AND SCREENING
The very first alcohol screening test was developed in the 1880s by Francis E. Anstie, a British physician. The test, known as the “drunkometer,” measured the level of alcohol in a person’s exhaled breath. It wasn’t until the 1950s that another significant breakthrough was made in alcohol screening. Robert F. Borkenstein, a U.S. researcher, developed the first practical breathalyzer, which remains one of the most commonly used alcohol screening tests today. Alcoholism has been a prevalent issue worldwide for centuries, affecting individuals and families alike. The history of alcohol screening to determine substance abuse is a story riddled with myths, stigma, and controversy. In ancient times, alcoholism was considered a moral failure rather than a disease. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that physicians started identifying it as a medical condition. However, even then, the diagnosis of alcoholism was based on subjective evaluations of behavior and drinking habits. It wasn’t until the 1940s and 1950s that objective and standardized screening tools, such as the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) “Twenty Questions” and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST), came into play.
FIVE KEY SIGNS INDICATING ALCOHOLISM
- Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
- An inability to limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
- Using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, and relationships in favor of drinking.
- Continuing to drink despite experiencing negative consequences.
HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL ALCOHOL SCREENING DAY
- Answer Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Questions.
- Take the AUDIT Test (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test).
- Join an online AA meeting.
- Purchase the AA Big Book.
- Take an online course about alcoholism.
- If you love the article image, purchase it on these fun products on Zazzle!
Note: If the above links do not direct you to the appropriate referral on the first try, return to the article and try again.
Do you have any ideas about how to celebrate this day? Please share them!
