What Berkshire Youth Wish You Knew About Alcohol
Youth are listening.
The SPARK Youth Advisory Boards (YABs) are concerned about the adult “drinking culture” and how it influences their own decisions around alcohol. They have concerns to share with adults, from their own research and observations.
Learn more about Berkshire County’s YABs.
Alcohol impacts your health, wellbeing and the young people around you.
Every year, alcohol misuse leads to around 178,000 deaths in the U.S., more than all drug overdoses combined.
In Berkshire County, alcohol-related deaths are 26% higher than the state average. Alcohol-related ER visits are more than double the state rate, increasing 26% in one year.
Alcohol misuse is highest among older adults, with 11% of adults 65+ reporting binge drinking. The same amount has greater impact as we age. Alcohol’s effects can be mistaken for aging or medication side effects.
Research that claimed a glass of wine a day is healthy has since been debunked. The CDC and World Health Organization both say that no amount of alcohol supports of improves health.
Click below for a PDF of our “Cheer Without The Cheers!” Brochure.
Did you know?
Alcohol is a carcinogen linked to 100,000 cancer cases per year, including 20,000 deaths - more deaths than caused by impaired driving. (Less than half of adults know about this risk!) Alcohol also increases the risk of falls, injuries, high blood pressure, diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
There are several ways to drink more safely.
Social spaces such as a bar are safer than at home.
Eat before and while drinking.
Count and measure drinks.
Know your triggers and plan alternatives.
Set a drink limit before you start.
Avoid shots and drinking games.
Offer no/lo drinks to make gatherings more inclusive.