Across the nation, more than 18 million individuals suffer from alcohol-use disorders and millions more are affected by loved ones' abuse of alcohol, according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., which sponsors Alcohol Awareness Month. Alcohol abuse also has a tremendous toll on the nation overall, accounting for $223.5 billion ($746 per person) in costs resulting from loss in workplace productivity, related healthcare expenses, law enforcement and other criminal justice expenses, and motor vehicle accidents resulting from impaired driving, as determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"These statistics and evidence of the effectiveness of treatment for alcoholism make a compelling case for ensuring access to prevention and treatment services, and recovery support programs," said Debra L. Wentz, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies. NJAMHAA represents 170 providers of addiction prevention and treatment services, mental health care and a range of non-clinical services, including peer services, supportive housing and supported employment, throughout the state. "This illustration also applies to other substance use disorders and mental illnesses, which are equally treatable and commonly occur simultaneously with alcoholism."