10/25/2026
The Hmong culture seems to encourage drinking, and people are actually shamed if they don't accept drinks at a family gathering or party. We really need to look at how alcoholism is affecting our community and our families. This is a topic that is not talked about because alcohol has become so commonly used and abused in the Hmong community.
Alcohol is often presented as something that helps people relax, have fun, and enjoy life. But for some people, it gradually becomes something that controls their life, their emotions, their relationships, and their ability to be present for the people who care about them.
Something can be socially acceptable and still be harmful. Alcohol can cause dependence, liver disease, certain cancers, accidents, and relationship problems. Not everyone who drinks becomes addicted, but many do develop alcohol dependency.
When someone develops a drinking problem, society may tell them to exercise self-control or simply drink less. But alcohol use disorder can change the brain's reward and self-control systems, making it difficult to stop even after facing serious problems such as accidents, DUI/DWI, or jail time, etc. Effective treatments exist, yet many people do not receive them.
The CDC estimates that excessive alcohol use contributes to approximately 178,000 deaths annually in the United States.
Society often discourages illegal drugs because of their addictive potential, yet alcohol—a substance that can also cause dependence, serious illness, and devastating family consequences—is sold openly and promoted as a lifestyle choice.
The difference is not simply that alcohol is safer. History, cultural acceptance, legal status, economic interests, and public policy all help explain why it is treated differently.
Discouraging harmful drinking does not have to mean shaming people who struggle with addiction. It means being honest about the risks, preventing harm, and making help accessible.
If you are struggling with alcoholism, please seek help.
Alcohol use disorder is treatable.
Options include:
1-A doctor: Can assess their drinking, health, and withdrawal risks.
2-Counseling: Helps them understand their triggers and develop healthier ways to cope.
3-Medication: Medicines such as naltrexone or acamprosate can help some people reduce cravings or maintain abstinence.
4-Recovery groups: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other peer-support programs offer ongoing encouragement.
5-Treatment programs: Depending on their needs, treatment can take place at home with medical supervision, through outpatient care, or in a residential facility.
FB Hmong support group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2523076204806557/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT
