According to CBS Sports, the National Football League and the National Football League Players Association have agreed to increase the discipline imposed on players who violate the league’s alcohol policy.
The two associations must first agree on a human growth hormone testing policy. The man at the head of the NFL’s security, Adolpho Birch, is on board for reform. The union is seeking to increase discipline for players that break alcohol violations and to take other proactive preventative steps. The league feels it is important to provide resources, education, and awareness to players, while also implementing deterrents that are effective. They are aiming to make the consequences for alcohol violations outweigh the risk that the player might be willing to take.
A Look at Aldon Smith of the San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco linebacker Aldon Smith was arrested for a DUI in September 2013 and just three days later was back on the football field playing against the Colts. Smith’s vehicle crashed into a tree and police said he was over the legal limit in California and also in possession of marijuana. Smith had been arrested for a DUI in Florida in January 2012 as well.
About Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
It is not always easy to tell when one’s drinking has crossed the line for moderate or social use to problem drinking, but consuming alcohol compulsively or to deal with feelings or difficulties might be signs of alcohol abuse. Alcoholism has the potential to interfere with various aspects of a person’s life, including:
- Personal relationships
- Mental and physical health
- Social standing
- Career
- Motivation
- Overall well-being
Alcoholism is unique, in that it is considered to have both physical and mental components. Things such as stress, social environment, age, gender, and ethnicity are all factors that can contribute to the development of alcoholism. The biological component is not as well understood, but through new studies and cutting-edge research we are learning how to better understand and treat the disease every day.
Get Help
It can be very difficult to watch your son struggle with alcohol or drug abuse, but there is a way to help. Here at Muir Wood, our sole focus is helping teen boys stop abusing substances and start getting back on track. Download our information packet or contact our call center now to learn more about our unique program here in Northern California.
