Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk - But it Can't Stop There: April is National Alcohol Awareness Month

Apr 22, 2008

ADAMH and the Columbus State Community College Warn Students of the Danger of Abusing Alcohol.

Many of us have seen the famous Superbowl commercials for alcoholic beverages that encourage drinking, but only in moderation. For high school and college students across the country the idea of drinking responsibly fall to the wayside and peer pressure kicks into overdrive and persuades these teenagers and young adults to take “an ever so innocent sip” of this dangerous drink.

Recent studies show that each year nearly 1,700 students between the ages of 18 and 24 died from unintentional alcohol related injuries, including motor vehicle crashes; and an alarming 600,000 students report minor to serious injuries related to alcohol. Unfortunately, even with these devastating statistics many students will sample their first drink this year. That is why, ADAMH, the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County working together with Columbus State Community College, banded together to educate students on the dangers of alcohol.

With April being National Alcohol Awareness Month, there is no time better than the present to learn more information about the dangers and consequences of abusing alcohol. The Columbus State Community College took steps to decrease the numbers of alcohol related injuries or deaths this year by hosting Alcohol Awareness Day, April 10, 2008. The event gave students the opportunity to learn what could happen if they abused alcohol.

“Programs like these are essential for students who are still learning and developing as young adults,” Nettie Ferguson the Network Manager of Prevention Services at ADAMH explained.

“There are many factors that can lead these students in the wrong direction and it is important that they know the negative consequences of using drugs and alcohol.”


If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse issues or mental health issues it is important to seek the help of a health care professional. There are many ADAMH funded agencies that provide service for those in need of assistance with substance abuse including: Maryhaven, The Prevention Council, Columbus Area and many more. To learn more about the ADAMH System of Care and find a provider in your area visit www.adamhfranklin.org.

ADAMH is Franklin County’s authority for planning, funding and evaluating mental health, alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment service. ADAMH-funded services are provided by a local network of more than 40 not-for-profit providers and offered on a sliding-fee scale, making them affordable for any county resident, regardless of income.

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Alisha Wilkes or Aimee Shadwick
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