New brief report: Alcohol harms and digital advertising data
The five weeks each year when Victoria’s alcohol harms are highest have been presented in a new report that draws on unique National Ambulance Surveillance System data.
The “Five weeks to watch” report released this week by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth), The University of Queensland and Turning Point is a stark reminder about the importance of seeking treatment and support, especially during peak times of alcohol-related harms.
The report used Turning Point's National Addiction and Mental Health Surveillance Unit's (NAMHSU’s) National Ambulance Surveillance System (NASS) data to identify peak periods for alcohol-related harms, which coincided with a rise in social media ads for these products.
Turning Point NAHSMU Strategic Lead, Dr Rowan Ogeil, said research has shown seasonal effects for alcohol-related harms, with harms increasing in the summer season when many people are on holidays.
“The last week of February is one of the top five weeks across the year associated with alcohol-related harms in Victorian NASS data, and the only one in the top five that didn’t feature a public holiday," he said.
At these critical times, it is even more important to remember that there are effective treatments available for Victorians wanting to cut back or cut out alcohol.
“Treatment and support for alcohol is effective and worth discussing with your friends and family, especially during periods where your alcohol consumption may be higher than usual," Dr Ogeil said.
“DirectLine is a statewide first port of call for alcohol counselling and referral in Victoria – and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 888 236."