Isaac C.
April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a nationwide campaign to increase understanding of alcohol addiction and reduce the stigma that keeps people from seeking help. As alcohol use and related health issues continue to rise across the U.S., particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic and recent crackdown on Fentanyl drug trafficking, this month serves as a timely reminder to evaluate our relationships with alcohol, support loved ones in recovery and highlight the importance of treatment and long-term support.
At Cornerstone of Southern California, we’ve seen firsthand how damaging alcohol misuse can be. But we also know that recovery is possible with the proper support, resources, and care.
Over the past year, treatment centers across California including Cornerstone, have seen a significant increase in cases of alcohol misuse. A key driver of this trend in 2025 is the tightened crackdown on drug trafficking, particularly related to illicit fentanyl and heroin. As these substances become more challenging to obtain and are recognized as increasingly dangerous, many individuals are turning to alcohol as a more accessible, safer, and socially acceptable alternative.
Unfortunately, this shift doesn’t eliminate the risks, it replaces one threat with another. Alcohol, though legal, is still a powerful and addictive substance. Its widespread availability and cultural normalization can make the descent into alcohol dependency feel insidious and often go unnoticed until it becomes serious.
The growing reliance on alcohol as a substitute for harder drugs highlights the urgent need for comprehensive addiction education, early screening, and supportive treatment options.
Alcohol Awareness Month was created to encourage honest conversations about alcohol use and dependency. In recent years, the need for awareness has become even more urgent.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol-related deaths have significantly increased since 2020. Stress, isolation, and disrupted routines have all contributed to higher alcohol consumption, particularly among young adults and working professionals. What was once casual drinking has, for many, escalated into patterns of dependence or binge behavior.
Raising awareness is the first step toward early detection and recovery. When we normalize talking about alcohol use, we empower people to get the help they need without shame.
At Cornerstone of Southern California, we've witnessed a notable rise in admissions for alcohol use disorder. One contributing factor is that as illicit drugs like fentanyl and heroin become harder to find or riskier to use, some individuals are turning to alcohol as a more accessible or "safer" alternative. Unfortunately, alcohol is anything but harmless in high doses or prolonged use.
Other contributing factors include:
April is the perfect time to take action, whether for yourself or your community. Here are ways to get involved:
Even small steps can spark life-changing conversations.
Alcohol use disorder doesn’t always look like what people expect. It's not just about the quantity of alcohol consumed it's also about how that use affects someone’s life.
Some common signs include:
If you or someone you love shows these symptoms, it’s time to consider seeking help.
Early intervention is critical when it comes to treating alcohol addiction. The sooner someone enters treatment, the more effective it can be and the easier it is to prevent long-term health complications.
At Cornerstone, we offer a full spectrum of care:
Treatment doesn’t stop at detox it continues through recovery with therapy, relapse prevention, and ongoing care.
With nearly 40 years of trusted experience in addiction recovery, Cornerstone of Southern California has helped thousands of individuals find lasting sobriety. Our multidisciplinary approach combines medical care, psychological support, and personalized treatment planning.
We offer:
Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or supporting someone else, our team is here to guide and support you throughout your journey.
Alcohol Awareness Month is a campaign and a movement. It's a chance to save lives, strengthen families, and foster hope. If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol, April could be the turning point.
Don’t wait. Contact Cornerstone of Southern California today to speak with a treatment coordinator or verify your insurance.
