Taskforce sets Christmas challenge

Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce has encouraged people to be mindful of their alcohol consumption during the Christmas period.

Taskforce co-ordinator Sally Pymer said the holidays often coincided with higher alcohol consumption, and dangerous behaviours such as drink-driving, swimming while intoxicated and family arguments could all occur as a result.

“The Christmas period can be exciting for some and quite stressful for others,” she said.

“If you love Christmas, it might be good to remember it as much as possible by not going overboard with the alcohol or drugs.”

The taskforce has also called on Wimmera residents to take part in a social media challenge.

The challenge involves not posting or liking images containing alcohol on social media. Mrs Pymer said alcohol brands often received free promotion from people sharing images of themselves or others drinking.

She said children often formed unhealthy impressions of alcohol consumption through social media.

“It is alarming to think at least 103 million minors are being exposed to alcohol marketing online on a monthly basis. This exposure places them at greater risk of alcohol consumption and long-term problems with alcohol,” she said.

Mrs Pymer said anyone who believed they had a problem with alcohol or other drugs could call Grampians Community Health on 5358 7400 or Uniting Wimmera on 5362 4000.