April is Alcohol Awareness Month

In Wisconsin, alcohol consumption is deeply ingrained in societal norms. However, this cultural tradition has its drawbacks with Wisconsin consistently ranking among the top states for excessive drinking rates, accompanied by a litany of interpersonal, professional, financial, legal, and healthcare costs that we all pay - either directly or indirectly.

Wisconsin Dashboards

Alcohol: Adult Use

Alcohol: Youth Use

Alcohol: Attributable Deaths by County

Alcohol: Hospitalizations by County

IMPACT’s history is rooted in assessment and referral and, since 1960, we have helped people take the first step toward regaining stability. Whether someone needs to navigate the process to regain their license; is concerned about a loved one; or is ready to make a positive, sustained change, our caring and credible staff know the next steps and connect clients to effective solutions. 

IMPACT Operating While Intoxicated assessment and referral

Drivers convicted of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) are court ordered to see a State-trained substance use disorder counselor for an assessment. In Milwaukee County, the approved facility is IMPACT.

Our counselors offer a pleasant and professional experience where clients feel supported and motivated to resolve their offense. The assessment is a private, one-on-one interview with a substance use disorder professional which lasts approximately one hour. The interview follows a series of questions regarding drinking, drug use and related issues.

Based on the results of the interview, counselors recommended a course of action, called a Driver Safety Plan (DSP). It defines the education or treatment program that clients need to complete in order to acquire and/or retain their driver’s license. In 2023, 787 people who were referred to treatment successfully completed their DSP.

IMPACT 211 supports statewide access to substance use disorder services

The Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline, a free and confidential service supported by a grant from the Department Health Services (DHS) and managed by 211 Wisconsin launched in October 2018 as part of efforts by state officials to reduce drug overdoses. IMPACT 211, serving Southeast Wisconsin, is one of eight contact centers throughout the state with trained resource specialists who can help callers navigate a substance use disorder.

The 211 database includes information about 2,000+ agencies offering over 5,000 different services including assessment, counseling, inpatient and outpatient care, residential treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and supports. Most of the contacts to the Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline are related to alcohol, followed by stimulants, then opioids.