MEDIA RELEASE: Pause the Pour: Raise Awareness This April

Last Updated: 4/16/2026

April is Alcohol Awareness Month and the time to raise awareness on excessive alcohol use and alcohol use disorder. Each April offers the opportunity for communities to understand the impacts of alcohol use, reduce stigma, and promote healthier choices.  By fostering open conversations and increasing awareness, we can help reduce risks and support the health and wellbeing of Tioga County residents.

Alcohol misuse affects people physically, mentally, and socially. Excessive drinking has been linked to increase risks of chronic disease, injuries, impaired decision making, and emotional distress. Every year alcohol impacts individuals, families, and communities causing preventable alcohol related impairment and deaths. Nationally, there are more than 178,000 alcohol related deaths, making it the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States.

Alcohol continues to be one of the most misused substances in Tioga County! In Tioga County, 19% of adults reported binge drinking, which is higher than the New York State average at 16%. Alcohol is the highest reported substance used, with at 37% of Tioga County teens having tried alcohol in their lifetime.

This month we encourage community members to take steps to become more informed and more mindful about alcohol use. Some ways to do this are:

• Learning more about the health risks associated with alcohol use
• Checking in with family and friends who may be struggling with their alcohol use
• Practicing or encouraging alcohol use in moderation
• Exploring alcohol free activities or social events
• Connecting with local prevention, treatment, and recovery supports

Resources are available to help community members who want to better understand alcohol use, cut back, or seek professional support. For more information on prevention and talking to your teens visit: https://tiogaasap.org. Help is available for those who need it at Tioga County Mental Hygiene. For more information on getting help call Tioga County Mental Hygiene at 607-687-4000.

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