Social media is one of the means people use to share news and creative content. These platforms allow easy access to a targeted audience; hence, most brands also use them to advertise their products. It is also common for people to upload pictures and videos of their lifestyle. This type of content might appear harmless to a casual observer. However, there is a relationship between drinking and social media as people who post alcohol-related content can influence others. If you suffer from alcohol addiction, contact our Saratoga, California alcohol addiction treatment center at 800.701.6997 today.
The Relationship Between Drinking and Social Media
Social media is a vital part of most people’s lives. So, it can influence a person’s behavior, including how one uses drugs and alcohol. Most people also use online social platforms to organize parties and gatherings that involve drinking. A study by CASA Columbia shows that people who spend time on social media are more likely to drink alcohol than those with no access to the platforms.
Posting pictures on alcohol use on social media also indicates problematic drinking behavior. Therefore, many people that post photos of themselves drinking are likely to suffer an addiction. Some people also use social media sites to encourage alcohol use. For instance, Facebook had to close a group called Take Me Drunk I’m Home, which resurfaced later. Such platforms popularize engaging in alcohol-fueled behavior like fighting.
Effects of Digital Alcohol Advertising
Alcohol manufacturing companies use creative content for advertising their drinks. For instance, some brands use giveaways, games, and drinking contests when promoting products. These lucrative aspects make their social media pages gain more followers, which results in higher sales. A survey of 1500 New Zealand teens shows that exposure to online alcohol marketing content can lead to drinking. Digital alcohol marketing increases the possibility of consuming alcohol by 98%. On the other hand, traditional marketing raises the chance by 51%. This research highlights a positive correlation between drinking and social media usage.
The content posted by most alcohol brands on social media platforms may be harmful. Most of these posts normalize the daily use of alcohol and binge drinking. Alcohol advertising laws also need companies to take various precautionary measures when promoting their products. Such measures include telling people that excessive alcohol consumption causes harm. However, most adverts do not inform the audience on how to control their alcohol usage.
Social Media and Alcohol Addiction Recovery
Despite social media influencing people to engage in problematic behavior, it can also be helpful. There are various social media groups that a person recovering from addiction can join. These groups help people share their addiction and recovery experiences. They also make it possible for one to connect with other people in recovery without meeting them physically. Moreover, one can access informative posts and content that creates alcohol addiction awareness. Such include articles on the effects of alcohol abuse. A person can also use social media to reach out for help from rehabilitation and detox centers. These facilities offer customized treatment programs to help people recover from alcohol abuse. Some of these programs include:
- Residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Aftercare programs
Some people may not be able to attend a treatment program physically. Telehealth services enable one to contact a therapist using a mobile phone or computer. This service is convenient, saves time, and makes it possible for them to continue their scheduled activities while recovering from addiction.
No matter what led to your addiction, there is help available. To learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment options, contact us today by calling 800.701.6997.
