Introduction to the Special Series on Alcohol Awareness Month

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a designation designed to "increase public awareness and understanding, reduce stigma and encourage local communities to focus on alcoholism and alcohol-related issues." Here on The BASIS, we are doing our part to increase public awareness and understanding  by reviewing contemporary research on alcohol and its effects.

We begin with an article on The WAGER exploring how drinking alcohol and gambling jointly influence gambling-related beliefs–both for those with gambling problems, and those without. Next, The DRAM reviews changes in alcohol control policies over time and their effects on Americans' drinking patterns. ASHES investigates the effects of addressing both smoking and drinking behaviors within an intervention for smoking cessation. Finally, the STASH looks at the relationship between heavy alcohol use and suicidal behavior in illicit drug users. Each of these studies has implications for improving the lives of people touched by alcohol and other potential objects of addiction.

We hope you will enjoy and learn from this Special Series.