A substance isn’t any less dangerous just because it is legal. Alcohol use is prevalent across South Dakota. Not everyone who consumes alcohol may misuse it. However, there are times when that use may impact someone's life.
A substance use disorder is diagnosed by a professional when someone can’t stop or reduce their alcohol use. Individuals may notice the impact on their health, work, relationships or daily life. If you’re concerned about your drinking or a loved one’s drinking, you’re not alone. In 2023, 27% of South Dakota adults met the criteria for heavy or binge drinking - one of the highest rates in the nation.
For females, heavy drinking is categorized as eight or more drinks per week. For men, it’s 15 or more drinks. Binge drinking is defined as having four or more drinks on one occasion for women and five or more for men.
Signs You May Consider Seeking Help
If you’re concerned about substance misuse, you’re not alone. Substance use disorders present differently in everyone, but you may want to consider seeking help if you:
Need more of a substance to achieve the same effects
Experience withdrawal symptoms when you’re not using
Have felt negative impacts at work, school or on your relationships due to using
Have engaged in risky or dangerous behaviors to obtain substances
Have experienced legal, financial or health problems due to use
