COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control is sharing online tools with Ohioans who plan to participate in “Dry January.”
It’s a month-long initiative that encourages individuals to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year for improved health outcomes in an array of areas.
The division has assembled several resources from across different state agencies related to alcohol abuse prevention at www.com.ohio.gov/SocialResponsibility.
“As we raise a glass to the New Year, please raise one responsibly,” said Paul Kulwinski, the division’s director of licensing, said a a press release. “The division is committed to promoting information to combat impaired driving, underage drinking, and over consumption during Dry January and beyond.”
The online resources include links to alcohol self-screening tools, which can help individuals understand their drinking habits better. Additionally, there is a collection of delicious and creative mocktail recipes for those who want to enjoy the social aspect of drinking without the alcohol.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, the division has joined forces with its partners at Ohio Liquor (OHLQ), and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS). This partnership aims to provide Dry January-specific content to further support those participating in the initiative.
“Whether or not you’re participating in Dry January, developing a plan before going out to a party or gathering is a good idea. Consider: How many beverages will I drink? How much money will I spend? If you’re considering limiting the time spent at the event, try setting an alarm on your phone or watch,” said Stacey Frohnapfel-Hasson, OhioMHAS’ Chief of Office of Prevention & Problem Gambling, in the release. “OHLQ and the Division of Liquor Control value their role in raising awareness about the responsible consumption of high-proof spirits and the role it plays in mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, OhioMHAS offers a wide range of resources listed below.”
This support and resources includes:
• Visit, Check in on Yourself at https://mha.ohio.gov/get-help/get-help-now/01-check-in-on-yourself; www.FindTreatment.gov;
• Going to Beat the Stigma at https://beatthestigma.org/
• Calling 988
• Crisis Text Line – Text “4hope” to 741 741
• Calling 1-800-589-9966 Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline
• Going to Social Responsibility & Alcohol Abuse Prevention page on the Ohio Department of Commerce’s website.
The Division of Liquor Control is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio’s chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at www.com.ohio.gov
The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) is a cabinet-level state agency that exists to provide statewide leadership of a high-quality mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery system that is effective and valued by all Ohioans. OhioMHAS strives to end suffering from mental illness, substance use disorders, and problem gambling for Ohioans of all ages, their families, and communities. The department oversees a statewide provider network that consists of 50 alcohol, drug addiction and mental health boards, six regional psychiatric hospitals, and more than 2,300 community-based mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery support agencies.
