Sensible use of Alcohol Encouraged

Taranaki District Health Board is encouraging locals to help each other ease up on the drink
in support of the Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand’s (ALAC) newest marketing
campaign.

The campaign which launched on 7 April with the release of the first of three new television
commercials focuses on the things people can do to look after themselves and the people
they care about around alcohol.

“As New Zealanders we pride ourselves on being good mates and caring about our families
– alcohol is an area where we can do small and simple things that can help people make
positive changes to the way they drink – which is good for everyone,” said Jill Nicholls,
Health Promoter from the Alcohol Related Harm team, Public Health Unit of the Taranaki
DHB.

“It’s about the way we host people when they come over for a meal, BBQ or to watch
something on TV right through to the way we talk to each other about alcohol if we’re worried
someone might be going too far,” she said.

“When people drink to excess the effects are often felt by their friends, families, workplaces
and wider communities. We’ve all got a role in making changes and helping each other to
ease up on the drink.”

“We’re encouraging our community to think about the things they can do differently to make
a positive change about the way we drink alcohol – from making sure there is substantial
food and non-alcoholic options next time they are having a few drinks at home, through to
letting people know if they are worried about their drinking.”

“The way people go about doing it will be different depending on the relationship they have
with the people around them and the situation they’re in but the main message really is that
however they do it, they should help the people they care about ease up on the drink,” said
Mrs Nicholls.

Visit www.alac.org.nz for more information, or call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787
797 if you’re worried about your drinking or the drinking of someone you care about.

For more information contact
Jill Nicholls
Health Promoter
Public Health Unit
Taranaki District Health Board
Phone: 06 753 7799

Last updated: Thursday, February 3, 2011