Every year, millions of Americans reflect upon their alcohol consumption and come to the realization that they have an Alcohol Addiction. Usually, this comes as a result of some regrettable behaviors and activities. Whether they drank too much at the Holiday Party or have legal, financial, or personal problems from Alcohol Addiction, there is a lot of evidence that many Americans consider this Bermuda Triangle between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s a time for overindulgence. Many individuals want to make a change but do not realize that treatment for Alcohol Addiction is available through Intensive Outpatient Program Treatment.
In 2018, Morning Recovery conducted a small study that yielded some expected results: the average American consumes 100% more between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.
The study indicated that 69% of people are more likely to socialize during this time of year than any other, however, that increase in socializing leads to overindulgence.
The study was conducted by a manufacturer of a supplement drink designed to cure hangovers and was designed to determine seasonal drinking patterns and how they affect day-to-day life during this festive time of the year.
Not surprisingly, the study found:
- For most adults, an increase in social functions (holiday parties, family gatherings, dinners, football) inevitably leads to an increase in alcohol consumption.
- The most popular seasonal drinks among participants are eggnog (40%), coffee with Baileys (34%), Christmas beer (28%), and cider (27%).
- The number of social events per week increased on average from one event to three events during the holiday season.
- Spending on these social events also increased during the holidays. Average spending each month rose a whopping 122% from $241 to $537 (not adjusted for 2021 inflation).
- The NIAAA defines heavy alcohol use for men at more than four (4) drinks a day and fourteen (14) drinks per week; women at more than three (3) drinks per day and seven (7) drinks per week. During these periods, the average drinks per week rose from four (4) to eight (8).
- The mornings also get more difficult during the holidays with a full 30% of those participating reporting ‘rough mornings’ that actually dampen their overall holiday spirit.
- Productivity problems also increase during the Holiday Season:
- the average American to be late to work three times over the course of the holidays
- calling in sick twice during the holidays
- approximately 70% said hangovers and after-effects of drinking make them less productive at work the next day
- In 2016, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that Americans average close to 1% weight gain in the time between Thanksgiving and New Years’.
This study is not earth-shattering news for millions of Americans who indulge and regret the night before. However, if this is persistent and begins to pose a threat to you personally, professionally, or otherwise, you may have an alcohol addiction and should contact us at (772) 584-3083 or HELP@VeroBeachRecovery.com to get a professional opinion.
