Alcohol-Free Weekend to be Observed April 3-5, 2015

Alcohol-Free Weekend, traditionally observed during April’s Alcohol Awareness Month, is scheduled for April 3-5, 2015.

Alcohol Awareness Month, founded and sponsored by The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, INC. (NCADD) since 1987, is a national grassroots effort observed by communities throughout the United States to support prevention, research, education, intervention, treatment and recovery from alcoholism and alcohol-related problems.

During Alcohol-Free Weekend, NCADD and the Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services Alcoholism/ Chemical Dependency Prevention Program ask parents and other adults to abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages for a 72-hour period to demonstrate that alcohol isn’t necessary to have a good time. If participants find it difficult to go without alcohol during this period, they are urged to call 518-358-2967 for more information about alcoholism.

Over spring break, take the time to talk to your kids about alcohol and its effects. Statistics show that delaying the age of onset of first use significantly reduces the chances of becoming addicted to alcohol. Establish together time with your family and participate in some fun alcohol-free activities such as game night, puzzles, hiking/walking, card games, storytelling, cooking/baking, building a fort, or reflect on family memories by digging out some old pictures. Parents and guardians are the most important role models in a child’s life. Demonstrate the positivity of living a healthy lifestyle created by making good decisions and taking care of your body.