We Hate to say “told you so” but…..
Effects in the UK of the recession show massive increase in alcohol problems. (Click here for source)
Anecdotal evidence suggests things may be even worse in Ireland….last christmas we published the following:-
Sunday Independent December 21 2008
Sir — As more and more reports on alcohol consumption show us sliding towards horrendous societal and health problems there are serious questions to be asked of those in highly paid positions who are refusing to take the necessary steps to tackle this problem.
Until now, much of the lobbying, begging and cajoling to do something about this has been done by financially starved voluntary organisations and concerned individuals.
There has been enough talk, there are enough reports and it is now time for drastic action. Curbs on advertising and curbs on availability can be implemented with the stroke of a pen, subject to political willpower.
Why are these measures still only being flirted with?
It appears that many low-volume drinkers, while aware of the issues, remain silent for fear they may be leaving themselves vulnerable to be questioned on their own consumption. It is time for these drinkers to take that risk. It is estimated that in excess of 30 per cent of drinkers fall into the “problem drinking” category in varying degrees. Problem drinkers attach great importance to their drug. They will go to any lengths to get it, irrespective of price or availability.
Drunk drivers, alcohol fuelled attendances at A&E and public order offences presenting at Garda stations provide ideal scenarios for structured opportunistic, educational interventions in a cost effective manner.
These interventions will always raise the question of a problem to the fore for the abuser and those close to them and hence will be a success in themselves regardless of outcome.
This Christmas it would be naive to assume that problem drinkers would reduce their consumption of alcohol because of economic restraints. More likely other more essential family needs are to be sacrificed to fund cheaper alcohol choices.
We need the committed, pro-active help of the 70 per cent or so low-volume drinkers to force the implementation of measures to halt this slide.
www.alcoholresponse.com