Alcohol is a drug. it is the one drug that is generally acceptable today as part of our way of life.

Because it is widely available and drinking is a legal social custom, the potential for abuse and dependence is high.

Signs of a drinking problem include:

• Compulsive alcohol consumption;
• Continued use despite adverse consequences (such as the repeated concerns of loved ones, the loss of a job, credit problems, etc.);
• Loss of control and an increase or decrease in tolerance for alcohol.

More than 10 million Americans are problem drinkers. Anyone can be an alcoholic. More and more regular people are diagnosed with the serious condition of alcohol dependence every day.

Pregnant women should be particularly concerned. The U.S. Surgeon General advises pregnant women not to consume any alcohol whatsoever. That's because the alcohol passes through the placenta and into the fetus. If the mother gets drunk, so does the developing child.

The drinking among teenagers and young adults presents a serious mental health risk to that age group as well as posing a grave physical risk. A recent study by the National Highway Transportation Administration found that alcohol related crashes are the number one cause of death in the 15-25 age group.

Denial is a major symptom of alcoholism. Others, who are close to those affected, are often the first to notice behavior changes and suspect something is wrong.

If alcohol is interfering with your life, there are things you can do to get help. The first step is to call your doctor for referral information. There are several organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous, among others, that can help. Be sure to seek help.

NEW CALIFORNIA STATE LAW ENTITLED DOMESTIC PARTNERS TO HEALTH BENEFITS; TRUST FUND PROVIDES ADDITIONAL BENEFIT

Under a new California law, registered domestic partners are entitled to coverage under the benefit plans of their partners' employers.

The legislation, which became effective on Jan. 1, covers domestic partners of same-sex couples, both of whom are at least 18 years of age, and opposite-sex couples when one or both are over age 62.

To maximize the advantages of this policy and share Trust Fund benefits, opposite-sex couples in which both partners are under the age of 62 must fill out an affidavit documenting their relationship. They are not able to register with the state to qualify.

The Trust Fund is committed to protecting the benefits of all participants. It is also committed to expanding those benefits whenever possible. Participants can help by understanding all of their rights, as well as their responsibilities.

To obtain an affidavit of domestic partnership, call PacFed at (800) 753-0222. For more information on the California law, visit the website of the secretary of state, www.ss.ca.gov/dpregistry.