Alcohol Awareness Classes
Not all alcohol awareness classes are the same. Depending on the design of the class and who offers the program, course curriculum can vary greatly. Also, alcohol awareness or minor in possession classes might include different content depending on the intent of the program requirement. For example, if you are taking a class for a court or legal requirement you likely want to find a program that is designed to meet those obligations vs. a general class that may or may not include all the content required by the court.
What do Alcohol Awareness Class do?
Taking an alcohol awareness class is not going to teach you how to stop drinking. Yes, I said it, you are not going to stop an addiction simply by taking an educational class. Learning to stop an addiction is not like having surgery, by which we remove an organ, and the problem is solved. Ending an addiction may be a long journey for some (a shorter one for others), and takes time. What alcohol awareness classes do is help educate the individual so that he/she has a better understanding of the risks, consequences and pitfalls to alcohol use. Alcohol and drug addiction is serious business and becoming more aware is usually the first step.
Should Teens be Educated the Same as Adults?
Early intervention is key. Studies show that the earlier kids are educated about the risks of alcohol and drug use, the lower the rates are of teen addiction. As it relates to the courts, most courts will require minors to a "Minor in Possession class" class and usually a duration of either 8, 16, or 24 hours also referred to as a Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 class. Programs for teens are an excellent way to help educate youth regardless of whether or not they have already been involved in an incident. It's never too late to better understand the pitfalls of alcohol or drug addiction.
Where to Get Help for a Court Ordered Alcohol Awareness Class?
Many local courts will provide a list of local providers; however, many do not. Alcohol and Drug Awareness Education is not the same as in-patient treatment. Instead, alcohol awareness classes are educational in nature and in many cases can be taken online. The advantages to taking an online class for your court requirement is that you can take the program anytime, from any location in the country. You are also anonymous, so there is no confessing in front of a large group of people. The educational content is usually the same as a live class, but much more affordable and easier to access. Help can also be found by simply doing a Google search for "Alcohol Awareness Classes".