Drug Action Week: Alcohol Most Destructive Drug in Australia
18 June 2013
As part of its Drug Action Week activities, The Salvation Army reflects on the destructive nature of alcohol and the impact that alcohol is having in Australian society – inflicting grief and hardship on many.
The Salvation Army’s Clinical Director of Recovery Services, Gerard Byrne, says while there is an understandable focus on other drugs currently in the media, the reality is that alcohol is still the most harmful.
“With a significant number of Australians regularly drinking to excess which leads to high levels of intoxication, the personal and social consequences that stem from this are on the increase,” Mr Byrne said.
“The burden on the Australian community is felt in areas such as motor vehicle accidents, domestic violence, assaults, personal injury as well as the pressure being placed on hospitals.”
As part of Drug Action week 2013, The Salvation Army highlights the broad variety of services aimed at reducing the harm caused by alcohol abuse to individuals, families and communities. These services include inpatient detox, residential treatment programs, outclient programs, domestic violence refuges, crisis accommodation services and financial counselling services.
The Salvation Army not only provides assistance to people directly affected by addiction, but also to their families and significant others facing grief and hardship as a consequence.
Staff in these services are dedicated to reducing alcohol related harm and to assisting people and families to recovery from the impact of alcohol in their lives. Through these services we assist over 1500 people each year.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing problems related to alcohol, you can access information on our website at salvos.org.au/recovery.