WARP

Do you enjoy a drink now and then? Many of us do, often when socializing with friends and family. Drinking can be beneficial or harmful, depending on your age and health status, and, of course, how much you drink.

For anyone who drinks, the NIAAA offers valuable, research-based information. What do you think about taking a look at your drinking habits and how they may affect your health? Rethinking Drinking can help you get started.

WARP launched a Rethinking Drinking campaign in July 2009 to address the high rates of adult binge drinking throughout Washtenaw County. Based on the research available through the Washtenaw Community Health Organization and the Michigan State Police it became apparent that heavy alcohol consumption was a major contributor to residents’ health problems, violent crime and motor vehicle crashes.

Binge drinking rates for adults in the more rural areas of Washtenaw County are more than 50% higher than the county average. In addition, 8.8% of Ypsilanti residents reported heavy drinking in 2005.

Take some time to evaluate your own drinking habits. If you are unsure where to start check out the website below and follow the links to get a better grasp on the impact of your own drinking. Remember, whether you’re looking to cut back or to quit drinking there are resources available to help you along the way.

“Rethinking Drinking” Interactive Website

Click here to download the “Rethinking Drinking” Booklet.

This programs is made possible through funding from the Michigan Department of Community Health, Bureau of Substance Abuse & Addiction Services and the Washtenaw Community Health Organization.