Reasons that People Consume Alcohol - Good and Bad, Right and Wrong

Have you ever asked your self why people drink alcohol? You probably think that it is a strange question, but think about it for a second. Since alcohol is generally associated with a social setting of some kind, what makes it such an attractive option?

Seven out of every ten legal age adults, defined as 21 years and over for alcohol, consume alcohol in some form, whether it is beer, wine or spirits. That doesn't mean that 70% of all adults are alcoholics, as only 9 to 10% are considered "problem drinkers". What does that mean?

As I said in my opening statement, the consumption of alcohol legally and responsibly usually happens in a setting where other people are. Whether it is a sporting event, a family celebration, the holidays, an after work meeting with friends or co-workers or even having a favorite beverage to compliment a meal the consumption of alcohol is "generally" associated with a social interaction. The alcohol isn't necessary for these circumstances, but they enhance the occasion while not being used to as a crutch. Generally speaking, people want to be accepted by their friends, families or colleagues and alcohol can sometimes help to achieve that acceptance, but there can be a fine line between acceptance and being taken advantage of.

The responsible consumption of alcohol to me is defined as deciding upon what to drink, when to drink and most importantly why to drink. If you enjoy alcohol in any form, ask yourself what are the reasons you do so, and what are your favorite times to do so. If you are not a drinker, chances are you have many friends who are, so you can be a great help to them as if you understand their reasons for consuming alcohol, you can be alert to warning signs if they vary from their routine.

Actually thinking about "What and Why" helps you to identify normal patterns of responsible drinking behaviors, and helps to identify the wrong reasons to drink alcohol.

Alcoholic beverages should not be consumed just because everyone else around you expects you to join in. Holiday parties are often an excellent example of social settings where everyone is encouraged to share a drink to celebrate the holidays, and those around them just don't take "no" for an answer. Mood also is a potentially dangerous reason to consume alcohol because it provides an "escape" from problems that may actually end up making a problem worse. Anxiety over jobs, family issues or even self doubt can play major roles in irresponsible choices as it relates to alcohol. If you see signs such as these in someone around you, encourage them to go with you to movie instead of the bar, hit the gym with you or even that they talk to professional counselor to help them through a personal crisis that alcohol will only end up making worse in the long run.

It is also never a good idea to mix alcohol with medication of any kind, and also never a good idea to consume alcohol against a doctor's orders which may include the possible risks of consuming alcohol during a pregnancy. Another good example of this is someone who is diabetic should be very careful about the consumption of alcohol and pay strict attention to their doctor's instructions.

As an alcohol awareness trainer, the point I always try to get across is this, "Responsible choices = positive results" and even though it doesn't just apply to the consumption of alcohol, it rings very true as irresponsible choices as to alcohol can can have results you may not recover from and that is a place no one wants to be.