7/12/23 Survey highlights need for more education around risky alcohol and drug use

A new survey commissioned by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation has revealed only 20 per cent of people who use alcohol and other drugs at risky levels¹ believe their use is a problem. 

The survey of over 3,600 Australian adults, conducted by Kantar Public, found participants at high-risk² of experiencing harms from alcohol and other drugs were more likely to recognise their use was a problem, but awareness was still less than 40 per cent amongst this group.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s CEO, Dr Erin Lalor AM, said the findings highlighted a lack of awareness of what constitutes risky drinking and other drug use, and the long list of related harms.

“Concerningly, many people at risk of experiencing harms from alcohol and other drugs aren’t aware their use is a problem which is why we urgently need greater investment in education around risky drinking and other drug use, including clear information about the harm it causes,” Dr Lalor AM said.

“Far too many people are losing their lives to alcohol and other drugs. Tragically, recent ABS data revealed the alcohol-induced death rate in 2022 had reached its highest in over a decade, while the annual number of unintentional drug-induced deaths has surpassed the road toll since 2014.

“Additionally, the harms associated with alcohol and other drugs in our community are widespread, impacting mental health, suicide, road trauma, domestic violence, emergency department presentations, housing insecurity, and many other social issues.”

Despite many believing their use was not a problem, almost 90 per cent of participants using alcohol and other drugs at high-risk² levels have wanted to change their use. This motivation was lower among those using at moderate risk³ levels (50%), largely due to the belief that their use was not a problem, and that they enjoyed it.

Although only a small number were likely to make a change, due to barries including believing their use was not a problem, the majority of those who followed through with seeking help were successful. These people were more inclined to try self-management strategies, than seek informal or professional help.

“It’s positive to see those who did seek help were able to change their alcohol or drug use, which is why it’s crucial to support people in help-seeking, including directing them to the best services and programs for their circumstances,” Dr Lalor AM continued.

“These findings also show we need stronger investment in self-management strategies for alcohol and other drug use, which could include greater access to information and investment in tools for self-help.”

If a person is worried about their own, or a loved one’s alcohol or other drug use, people can visit Path2Help – a tool that connects people with local services in their area and can help them have that initial conversation.

People can also visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

ENDS

For media enquiries please call the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s media team on 0430 948 380 or email media@adf.org.au.