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17th March, 2009

Launch of Guides to dealing with alcohol for teenagers and parents

There was a launch of Guides to Dealing with Alcohol for teenagers & parents this morning at the library in Wagga. The event was hosted by the Wagga CDAT & the Mayor, Mr Kerry Pascoe, spoke, as well as the chair of CDAT, Martin Alster.

The mayor stated that the guides (there are three in all: a pocket-sized & full versions for teenagers aged 16 - 18, & one for parents) are a NSW Health initiative targetting both teenagers & parents in a multi-layered approach, giving practical advice for both groups around the use of alcohol.

The mayor went on to promote the council's alcohol management strategy that will be drawn up over the next two years in partnership with the Australian Drug Foundation (ADF) & Wagga CDAT.

Martin Alster then gave an overview of CDAT's work followed by a more detailed look at the guides. It was noted that the guides contain the following key messages:

(for teenagers)
Drinking to excess can ruin the night for you & your mates; Drinking to excess can be dangerous; Drinking non-alcoholic drinks can be an enjoyable option; By drinking less & following some simple tips you can have a great night out; Get medical help if a friend passes out & never leave them alone.

(for parents)
Many young people are drinking at risky levels (3, 850 incidents in 2004
-2005 required hospital treatment for mental & behavioural disorders due to alcohol use among young Australians aged 12-24 years -

Australian Institute of Health: Parents can influence their teenagers' drinking behaviour by:

1. encouraging communication
2. setting boundaries &
3. modelling low risk drinking;

Ensure you are always contactable in case of emergency.

The guides are available free of charge from CDAT; contact Martin Alster on
6932 1484 or Tammy Elwin on 69213 796.