Alcohol Drug Helpline Welcomes New Alac Television Advertisements
The Alcohol Drug Helpline has welcomed the new series of television advertisements urging people to have the
conversation if they are concerned about the drinking of someone they care about.
The Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand’s (ALAC) latest marketing campaign has launched with the release of the
first of three new television commercials, focusing on the things people can do to look after themselves and the people
they care about around alcohol.
“This is exactly the approach we recommend to callers who ring us concerned about someone else’s drinking,” said Paul
Rout, CEO of the Alcohol Drug Association of NZ who deliver the Alcohol Drug Helpline.
“We emphasise that while no one person can make someone cut down or stop drinking, there are strategies you can adopt to
try to help them make that decision.”
“We advise talking to the person at a time when they are sober and to make sure it is clear you are raising the issue
because you are concerned about the other person. You should avoid getting into an argument but rather calmly discus the
effect their drinking is having on you and their friends, colleagues and family, and indeed on themselves.”
“Over 14,000 people call us each year to talk about their own or someone else’s drinking or drug use. We offer a
confidential solution focused approach, working with callers to find practical strategies they can use to make a
positive difference for them or someone else.”
“This is exactly the approach portrayed in the advertisements and I see the ads as a valuable tool to enable others to
raise the issue and have the conversation,” said Paul.”
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