Let’s Get Real: Does Montana Have A Drinking Problem?
BUTTE, MT - Montana is known for a lot of things.
If you're a tourist visiting the area for one of the vibrant seasons, you probably know Montana as a state inhabited by lovely, traditional folk who enjoy hanging out at the local saloon and taking care of their family. If you're born and raised in Montana, then you likely consider yourself to have experienced the true Montana way-of-life, knowing the values and traditions that pass along with it. If you've come in from another state, you know that, although everyone here claims to hate you, you are loved as a human and will—for the most part—be treated the same as anyone else.
Recently, the state has been recognized in another way: as having the second most bars per capita in the United States. This statistic raises an interesting question: does Montana have a drinking problem, or is this simply a reflection of its unique culture and social dynamics? Think back to how you know this state and its people, and think about those people's relationship with alcohol.
What do you think?
The Bar Culture in Montana
It's no secret that Montana's bar culture is deeply intertwined with its history, tradition, and community. Watering holes seem to be more than just a place to grab a drink. They're social hubs where friends, neighbors, and visitors gather to share stories, celebrate personal events, and just hang out for a couple hours outside the house. In many of the small towns in Montana, the local bar is the cornerstone for many community members and citizens, as the human need for camaraderie and interaction can be satiated.
Montana Likes Its Bars
How many bars are there in Montana? According to recent data, Montana contains approximately 8.6 bars per 10,000 people, placing it second only to Montana's neighboring state, North Dakota. It's easy to see this designation as an indicator of a drinking culture gone out of hand, but it's critical to consider the broader context of these figures without jumping to conclusions.
Especially when compared to the literal size of the state, Montana's population is relatively small, as many residents living in rural areas have very limited options for social interaction outside of the sparse community events and church on Sunday. Also, bars will often double as restaurants, event centers, and entertainment venues, providing opportunities for leisure and amusement that would otherwise be absent. Important to recognize is that the high density of bars does not necessarily equate to high levels of alcohol consumption or problematic drinking behaviors.
Social and Economic Factors
We can attribute several factors to the prominence of bars in Montana outside of local tradition and filling rural needs. Montana's state tourism industry plays a significant role, since visitors seek out local establishments to experience the "authentic" Montana lifestyle. On top of that, the agricultural and ranching industries, both of which are central to Montana's overall economy, have traditionally fostered a culture in which hitting the bar after a long day's work is common and appreciated.
But Seriously: Does Montana Have a Drinking Problem?
To answer whether or not Montana has a drinking problem is to take a nuanced approach, as objectivity in this response is virtually impossible. It's important to distinguish between cultural practices and, for some, what turns into harmful behaviors. So let's take a look at the stats to help us make a more informed decision.
Public health data does indicate challenges related to alcohol use. According to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Montana has one of the highest rates of alcohol-impaired driving deaths in the nation, with a concerning 43% of all traffic fatalities in 2020 involving an impaired driver. Additionally, the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that 21.4% of adults in Montana engaged in binge drinking in the past month, higher than the national average of 16.1%.
Substance addiction numbers also highlight concerns. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that 6.7% of Montanans aged 12 or older had an alcohol use disorder in 2019, compared to the national average of 5.3%.
These figures suggest that while bars serve as important social spaces, there are significant public health issues related to alcohol consumption that should be addressed. How do we address them? Designated driver programs, partnerships with ride-sharing services, and educational campaigns are examples of efforts to mitigate the risks associated with alcohol use.
Community and Responsibility
Ultimately, understanding Montana's relationship with alcohol requires a balanced perspective that considers the positive aspects of its bar culture alongside the efforts to promote health and safety. By focusing on responsible drinking and community support, Montana continues to celebrate its rich traditions while addressing the challenges that come with them. Designated driver programs, partnerships with ride-sharing services, and educational campaigns are examples of efforts to mitigate the risks associated with alcohol use.
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