WA Health has launched a new campaign aimed at helping people reduce their risk of alcohol-related harm during the current pandemic crisis.
The $330,000 campaign, Alcohol.Think Again, stresses that alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system, which is a danger during the COVID-19 pandemic and upcoming flu season.
Minister for Mental Health, Roger Cook said the campaign provided practical tips for people to keep within low-risk drinking limits, reducing their risk of alcohol-related harm.
“On top of the new campaign, the Government is also providing more support to clinicians who do not specialise in alcohol and drug issues to assist their patients,” Mr Cook said.
“The new Drug and Alcohol Clinical Advisory Service is a dedicated phone line for health professionals, and will be provided by the Mental Health Commission’s experienced addiction medicine specialists.”
He said the service meant that no matter where they were located within the State, clinicians, and therefore the community, would have access to leading treatment and advice regarding alcohol and other drug issues.
“We know an increase in alcohol is associated with higher rates of harm and ill-health in our community. At a time when we want to take the pressure off our health system, the last thing we need is an increase in alcohol-caused harm,” Mr Cook said.
He said the WA community had done well during its response to COVID‑19.
“One of the things we need to do is look after our own health, so everyone should avoid drinking at dangerous levels,” he said.
The Alcohol.Think Again campaign and the Drug and Alcohol Clinical Advisory Service have been developed by Mental Health Commission.
