Alcohol has deep roots in our culture. For thousands of years alcohol has been used as part of social gatherings, rituals, and religious celebrations. From early times to the present, alcohol has been widely used in many cultures and civilizations.

In Canada, 72% of adults drink. Most Canadians are responsible drinkers. They use alcohol in moderate amounts. People drink to celebrate, to relieve stress, to relax and to complement food.  Most people are responsible drinkers.

Some people will abuse alcohol and a small portion of drinkers frequently abuse alcohol. Five percent of drinkers are problem drinkers.

Because they drink too much, they cause problems in many areas of their life. If alcohol use interferes with a person’s life, there is a problem with alcohol use. Alcohol abuse can create troubles with family and social life, work, health or finances.

People who abuse alcohol are called alcohol dependent or alcoholic.

Some people do not use alcohol. They have many different reasons for not drinking:

They have just decided not to drink

Their culture or religion does not allow them to drink

They get sick when they drink

Our society has laws to protect people from the harmful effects of alcohol abuse. This includes laws against drinking and driving, operating dangerous equipment while under the influence of alcohol, and age restrictions for drinking alcohol.