Why April Is Dedicated to Alcohol Awareness
Every April, healthcare providers and organizations across the country recognize Alcohol Awareness Month. It’s a time to raise awareness about alcohol use, encourage safe drinking habits, and support those struggling with alcohol-related challenges.
At Link Primary Care, we provide a safe, judgment-free space where patients can openly discuss alcohol use and get personalized support—without the pressure of rushed visits or insurance barriers.
How Much Is Too Much?
According to the CDC, moderate alcohol consumption means:
- Up to 1 drink per day for women
- Up to 2 drinks per day for men
Drinking beyond this threshold increases your risk for:
- High blood pressure
- Liver disease
- Depression and anxiety
- Certain cancers
- Poor sleep and fatigue
Signs of Problematic Alcohol Use
Not sure if your drinking is a problem? Common signs include:
- Needing alcohol to relax or sleep
- Drinking alone or in secret
- Memory lapses or blackouts
- Feeling guilty after drinking
- Trouble stopping once you start
These signs can be early indicators of alcohol misuse. At Link Primary Care, we treat these concerns with compassion and confidentiality.
St. Louis and Alcohol Use: A Local Perspective
Missouri ranks above the national average for binge drinking rates. In a city like St. Louis, where social drinking is common at sports events, breweries, and festivals, it can be hard to know when it’s becoming a problem.
That’s why our care team, including Dr. Davis, Dr. Bereda, and our medical assistants Annette and Casey, focus on nonjudgmental, whole-person care. We listen and work with you to find realistic, achievable ways to reduce harm and improve health.
How Link Primary Care Supports Alcohol Health
We go beyond traditional screenings. Our Direct Primary Care model provides:
- Same-day appointments for open conversations
- Long and comprehensive visits to explore lifestyle factors
- Unlimited follow-ups to support ongoing goals
- Access to mental health screenings, treatment including prescription medications, and referrals
Whether you’re looking to cut back, quit, or just better understand your habits, our clinic is here to help.
Patient Story: Taking Back Control
A 38-year-old sales manager from St. Louis came to Link Primary Care after noticing how weekend drinking was impacting his sleep and productivity.
“Dr. Bereda didn’t shame me. He asked great questions, and we made a simple plan together. Two months later, I feel more clear-headed and healthier than ever.”
With ongoing support, he reduced his intake, improved his energy, and reconnected with his fitness goals.
Tips for Responsible Alcohol Use
Want to be more mindful of your drinking? Try these:
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Set weekly drink limits and track them
- Avoid drinking when stressed or bored
- Make plans that don’t revolve around alcohol
- Talk to a trusted friend or doctor if you’re struggling
You’re Not Alone—Let’s Talk About It
Alcohol Awareness Month is the perfect time to reflect and reset. Whether you’re concerned about your own habits or a loved one’s, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Davis using the following link:
https://calendly.com/jeffreydavis-linkprimarycare/link-primary-care-meeting
Get more information on our website at linkprimarycare.com
