Several studies have demonstrated an inextricable link between alcohol abuse and crime. Excessive alcohol consumption not just poses a serious threat to the health of an individual but is also a risk to the society. As per Federal Research, alcohol is a factor in 40% of all violent crimes today. As increasing crime rates is regarded as one of the biggest problems in the US, there is an urgent need to generate awareness on harmful effects of alcohol abuse.
Alcohol addiction is linked with several different types of crimes-
- Drinking and Driving
This is the most prevalent alcohol-related crime in the US and other countries. A substantial percentage of people convicted for driving offences are found driving under the influence of alcohol. In fact, studies suggest that drinking and driving is responsible for 1 in 3 crash deaths in the US. The studies also highlight the fact that it’s mostly men who indulge in drinking and driving. Drunk driving is a problem that poses a serious threat to the health of an individual.
- Anti-social behavior
While drinking and driving receives the maximum media and public attention, there are many other types of alcohol-related crimes that are just as dangerous and harmful for the society. It has been found that people who drink are more likely to indulge in violence, theft and other anti-social activities. Under the influence of alcohol, an individual becomes a threat to his own safety as well as the safety of others.
- Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a reality in many countries. While the problem is more linked to developing countries, domestic violence is just as real in the US and other developed countries. Alcohol abuse is the main cause of why men indulge in domestic violence.
Apart from effectively confronting alcohol-related crimes, it has become essential to provide alcohol detox facilities to the public. In the recent years, there has been an increase in the number of alcohol rehab centers offering help to combat this serious issue.
