The 4th of July Ranks High on “Holiday Drinking” List

Celebrating the country’s freedom often includes consuming a lot of alcoholic beverages. A survey on summer drinking trends in the United States found that individuals had the highest blood alcohol content (BAC) on the 4^th of July.¹

As many of us look forward to Independence Day festivities, it is also a time when some people are more likely to drink beyond their limits than at other times of the year. Also, if you are trying to stay sober being around people who are drinking may be a trigger. Experts say planning ahead is one of the best ways to stay safe during your celebrations.

Have a Plan for the 4th

Don’t underestimate the effects of alcohol, here are some tips to stay safe:

• Drink enough water. During the hot summer months, you are at risk of dehydration, especially if you are drinking alcohol. Be sure to have water and other non-alcoholic options. Nonalcoholic drinks help counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol. Also, the other fluids may slow the rate of alcohol absorption into the body and reduce the peak alcohol concentration in the blood.
• Pack healthy foods and snacks. Food can slow the absorption of alcohol and reduce the peak level of alcohol in the body by about one-third. Food can also minimize stomach irritation and gastrointestinal distress the following day.
• Use designated drivers or Uber. Anyone getting behind the wheel of a car should not have had any alcohol. Plan ahead to ensure you have a safe way to get home.

Risk of Alcohol Relapse

Remember, recovery is a life-long process and relapse is often a part of the journey. Certain holidays, like the 4^th of July, may cause someone to start reminiscing about their past alcohol use and even experience a neurochemical response that causes a craving for alcohol.

“No matter how long someone has been in recovery, there is always a risk of relapse,” said Dr. Lawrence Weinstein, American Addiction Centers’ chief medical officer. “Addiction is a chronic disease that must be managed every day.”

If you experience relapse, don’t give up hope and act as soon as possible to get back on the path to recovery.

“We are here for those, who despite their best efforts, indulge in alcohol. “We encourage those people to call us right away because even one drink can spiral into active addiction.”

If you are struggling and looking for rehab near Tampa, River Oaks Treatment Center can help.