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Home > Minister for Health highlights advice and supports for people with alcohol related problems during COVID-19.

[Department of Health] Minister for Health highlights advice and supports for people with alcohol related problems during COVID-19. (14 May 2020)

External website: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/ae0da6-ministe...


Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, and Minister of State for Health Promotion and the National Drugs Strategy, Catherine Byrne, today highlighted advice and supports for people with alcohol related problems during COVID-19.

COVID-19 poses additional risks to people with alcohol related problems. It is known that alcohol weakens the immune system and reduces the ability to cope with infectious diseases. Heavy use of alcohol increases the risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome, one of the most severe complications of COVID-19.

There is evidence from the CSO that a fifth of all adults who drink are consuming more alcohol during the shutdown period associated with COVID-19, while a smaller percentage report a decrease.

The Department of Health and the Health Service Executive are providing enhanced advice and supports for people dependent on alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include information and services on the AskAboutAlcohol website and social media posts. They have also published a COVID-19 poster with key messages for reducing the harms associated with alcohol and for supporting recovery.

Minister Harris said:

"We know this pandemic has created and caused problems for many of us. But we also know the problems facing those with alcohol dependency are compounded by the public health restrictions we have had to put in place. We must do everything we can to reach those who need us most.
"It is important we do not promote involuntary detoxes but that we help and guide people. There are increased risks related to home drinking, due to a combination of cheaper alcohol and the stress associated with COVID-19. This is especially the case where people drink more than the recommended low risk guidance. Use of other substances, including drugs and tobacco, can add to the risks of health and other harms."

As well as adhering to physical distancing and other guidelines incuding washing hands and practising good respiratory hygiene, there are additional public health messages for people who drink:

  • do not stockpile alcohol
  • have a few alcohol-free days per week
  • do not to mix alcohol with drugs or other medicines
  • delay drinking until children have gone to bed

Minister of State Catherine Byrne said:

"People with alcohol-related problems are facing greater challenges during this difficult time. They may experience stigma and discrimination, and many are struggling with their mental health. We need to reach out and offer support, not judgement.
"I would strongly encourage anyone experiencing alcohol related problems to contact drug and alcohol services, which continue to operate during COVID-19. Alternatively, people can contact the national drug and alcohol helpline for advice."

Minister Byrne continued:

"If people are thinking about cutting down or stopping alcohol, they should contact their GP for advice, so that they can cut back safely and avoid withdrawal symptoms. For those already in recovery, they should stay in touch with their personal and trusted recovery networks. Several support groups like AA, SMART Recovery and Life Ring continue to be available online."

Aisling Sheehan, National Lead, HSE Alcohol and Mental Health and Wellbeing Programmes, commented:

"People with alcohol related problems have particular needs and risks during the COVID-19 outbreak. It is important that people know that there are services and supports available to them, such as the HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459. There are lots of information and advice available on the AskAboutAlcohol website, including tools to help people assess their drinking and the impact it is having on them. Finally, a list of alcohol counselling and treatment services is available on www.drugs.ie."
Item Type
News
Publication Type
Irish-related
Drug Type
Alcohol
Intervention Type
Harm reduction, Policy
Source
Department of Health
Date
14 May 2020
EndNote
View
Subjects
A Substance use and dependence > Effects or consequences
B Substances > Alcohol
G Health and disease > Substance use disorder > Alcohol use disorder
G Health and disease > Disease by cause (Aetiology) > Communicable / infectious disease > Viral disease / infection > Coronavirus (COVID-19)
J Health care, prevention, harm reduction and treatment > Health care programme, service or facility > Substance disorder treatment unit
VA Geographic area > Europe > Ireland

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