Alcohol use disorder has gotten less attention in recent years due to the opioid crisis. But, in Maine, unhealthy use of alcohol continues to be a problem. A recent report, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, found that almost 11% of adults aged 65 and older reported binge drinking – having more than five drinks for men and four for women – at least once in the past month. We’ll discuss the various forms of alcohol abuse, what demographic groups are most affected, and what people can do to find support and recovery for those affected, including family members.
This is part of our ongoing focus on substance use issues in Maine.
Guests
Dr. Harold Amsel, specialist in addiction psychiatry, PenBay Medical Center
Bob H., in long-term recovery for alcohol use disorder; sober for more than 20 years; helps others in recovery
Dr. Nirav Shah, director, Maine Center for Disease Control
Dr. Mark Publicker (by phone), addiction medicine specialist
Denise O’Connell (by phone), senior program manager, Lunder-Dineen Health Education Alliance of Maine
Helen Thorgalsen (by phone), in long-term recovery for alcohol use
Resources
- Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Alcoholics Anonymous, Maine: (207) 774-4335
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Drinking Levels Defined
- Lunder Dineen Health Education Alliance of Maine: Alcohol Use: Time To Ask
- Binge Drinking Is Increasing Among Older Adults, Worrying Health Officials
- These are America’s drunkest states
- Alcohol.org: Binge Drinking During The Holidays