Alcohol Prevention

Alcohol misuse can affect health, relationships, school performance, workplace safety, and overall well-being. Prevention starts with education, awareness, and creating environments that support healthy choices. At Communicare Regional Prevention Center, we work with schools, families, workplaces, and communities to reduce alcohol-related harm through evidence-based strategies and community partnerships.

Our prevention efforts focus on delaying underage drinking, increasing awareness of risks, promoting protective factors, and connecting individuals to helpful resources. Whether you are a parent, educator, youth leader, or community member, prevention starts with informed conversations and shared responsibility.

What is a Standard Drink?

Understanding a standard drink can help people make informed decisions about alcohol use. Different beverages may look different in size, but they can contain similar amounts of alcohol.

In the United States, one standard drink contains about 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol. This is generally equal to:

12 oz beer (about 5% ABV)
5 oz wine (about 12% ABV)
1.5 oz distilled spirits (about 40% ABV)

Know the Risks of Alcohol

Alcohol can affect nearly every part of the body and may impact decision-making, relationships, school performance, work, and overall health. Understanding the risks can help individuals and families make informed choices and know when to seek support.

Short-Term Risks

Even one episode of excessive drinking can increase the risk of:

Injuries and accidents
Impaired driving
Falls and drowning
Violence or risky behavior
Alcohol poisoning
Poor judgment and decision-making
Memory problems or blackouts

Long-Term Risks

Over time, alcohol misuse may increase the risk of:

Liver disease
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Depression and anxiety
Certain cancers
Weakened immune system
Relationship or family problems
Alcohol use disorder

Youth & Teen Risks

Alcohol affects the developing brain. Underage drinking is linked to:

Problems with learning and memory
Poor academic performance
Increased risk-taking
Mental health concerns
Higher likelihood of future substance misuse

Pregnancy Risks

Alcohol use during pregnancy can cause lifelong developmental and physical health challenges for a baby. No amount of alcohol during pregnancy is considered safest.

Prevention Tips:

Talk early and often with youth about alcohol.
Model healthy decision-making.
Know where alcohol is stored in the home.
Plan safe rides and never drive impaired.
Encourage alcohol-free activities and events.
Learn the signs of risky use and when to seek help.

Warning Signs Someone May Need Help:

Drinking more than intended
Trouble at school, work, or home
Mood changes
Hiding alcohol use
Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
Difficulty cutting back

Help is Available

If alcohol use is causing problems, support is available. Early help matters.

Find Help Now KY
988 Crisis Lifeline
Local treatment and recovery resources
Talk with a healthcare provider

National Alcohol Information Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Trusted facts, data, and prevention information about alcohol use, binge drinking, health effects, and safety.
Visit CDC Alcohol Resources

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

National prevention, treatment, and recovery resources for alcohol and substance use disorders.
Find Help & Treatment

FindTreatment.gov

Search for alcohol treatment and recovery services across the United States.
Search Treatment Options

Kentucky Alcohol Help Resources

Find Help Now Kentucky

Find treatment openings, recovery housing, mental health support, and community resources available now throughout Kentucky.

Website: findhelpnowky.org

Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy

Access statewide treatment, recovery, prevention, and support resources.

Website: odcp.ky.gov

Operation UNITE KY HELP Call Center

Personalized assistance and referrals for Kentuckians seeking help for substance use concerns.

Call: 1-833-859-4357
(1-833-8KY-HELP)

Detox & Treatment

Safe detox programs and inpatient and outpatient treatment options are available.

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Support Groups

Find 12-step support groups, peer recovery programs, and family support meetings near you.

Call: 1-833-8KY-HELP

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free, confidential support 24/7 for mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis.
Call or Text 988

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