CISDUS 2022 E-Briefs
E-Briefs on Marijuana, Cigarette, E-Cigarette and Alcohol Use by Students in the Cayman Islands in 2022, based on the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS).
Caution for Apps for Alcoholism
Every April the National Drug Council joins the global community to highlight Alcohol Awareness Month to increase awareness and understanding of the causes and treatment of alcoholism. The impact of digital technology is a very hot topic, as we are seeing an abundance of apps recommended in the treatment of substance use. Technology therapeutic interventions or digital interventions (DI) are often self-managed interventions that individuals seeking treatment would access via a computer or smartphone. Research indicates that DI can be helpful when they are used as a complement to traditional treatment approaches. However, they are not recommended as stand-alone treatments. There are several benefits noted to using digital interventions that are heavily associated with seeking help and stigma: Apps can assist individuals in motivation by counting abstinent days and setting goals Participation in social media groups and peer chats for Alcoholic Anonymous Reduces the stigma associated with addiction by affording more anonymity Allows access to healthcare providers outside of geological areas using Telehealth, e-counselling, e-therapy, Zoom, FaceTime, and WhatsApp. [blockquote] “We are aware that there is a stigma attached to seeking help for alcohol. We are committed to working with schools, parents, law enforcement and treatment providers to ensure that the impact of alcohol on families is diminished,” [blockquote-footer] Says Brenda Watson, Director of the NDC. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] “We are aware that there is a stigma attached to seeking help for alcohol. We are committed to working with schools, parents, law enforcement and treatment providers to ensure that the impact of alcohol on families is diminished,” says Brenda Watson, Director of the NDC. This April let us take the challenge and do more to educate our communities about the treatment and prevention of alcoholism. If you or a loved one may be struggling with alcoholism, call us today at 949-9000 or visit our website at www.ndc.ky for a list of our partner agencies.
Arrive Alive 345 Returns this Holiday Season
Hurley’s Media, in partnership with National Drug Council (NDC) and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS), has this week launched its annual Arrive Alive 345 campaign, designed to promote safety and reduce road incidents associated with the overindulgence or abuse of alcoholic beverages during the holiday season. This year the campaign celebrates its 20th anniversary and for the second year will combine three initiatives that highlight the overarching message – Arrive Alive, don’t drink and drive, take the online pledge, designate a driver and on New Year’s Eve, ride FREE. [blockquote]“This time of year is meant to be a joyful and relaxing time, however the holidays typically are accompanied by a large number of road incidents that could be avoided. The safety of members of the community is our paramount concern and so we are happy to be a part of the Arrive Alive 345 Campaign.” [blockquote-footer]said Brad Ebanks, Acting Superintendent of Police in charge of Uniform Services with the RCIPS.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] The campaign will commence with the six-week Purple Ribbon Pledge, encouraging people to show their commitment to practicing safe driving by taking the online pledge not to drink and drive over the holidays or displaying a purple ribbon car magnet on their vehicle. This is followed by the Designated Driver program set to commence on December 1 whereby all participating bars and restaurants will be offering patrons who identify themselves as a designated driver free non-alcoholic drinks. Designated Drivers will also be eligible to win a prize in a weekly draw by entering a social media competition, with details to be announced on the Hurley’s Media Facebook page in the coming weeks. The Arrive Alive 345 Purple Ribbon Pledge campaign will end on December 31 with the New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus service, which sees over ten buses running between the hours of 9:00pm and 4:00am servicing all districts in Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, allowing patrons to ride home free. [blockquote] “We recognize the importance to keep riders safe. Therefore, we are taking the necessary safety precautions and have increased our buses to allow for social distancing on the buses during New Year’s Eve.” [blockquote-footer] said Delisa Hernandez, Prevention Officer at the National Drug Council. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] In 2019, the Arrive Alive 345 campaign saw zero DUI’s and no fatal crashes on December 31, and only two DUI’s were recorded on January 1 between the hours of 3- 4am. [blockquote] “In 2020, we hope we are able to further increase the use of the Purple Ribbon Bus and work with the public towards zero DUI’s on December 31 and January 1.” [blockquote-footer] said Ms Hernandez. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote] “Hurley’s Media are proud to be once again be a part of this important campaign in addition to the unfaltering support provided by the National Drug Council, Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and Radio Cayman.” [blockquote-footer] said Brydie Phillips, Marketing & PR Manager at Hurley’s Media. [/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] [blockquote] “Along with the NDC and RCIPS, we urge the community to get behind this very important campaign to ensure everyone in Cayman gets home to their families safely this Christmas and New Year’s Eve.” [blockquote-footer] said Ms Phillips.[/blockquote-footer] [/blockquote] This campaign was made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors: Jacques Scott, Britcay, Island Electronics, Kirk Motors Napa, Pestkil, Blackbeard’s, The Security Centre Limited, Davenport, Doctor’s Hospital, CIBC First Caribbean, National Roads Authority, DART, Flex, CUC, Rubis, Starbucks and Cel Beauty.
Talk Early, Talk Often: Parents Can Make a Difference in Teen Alcohol Use
One of the best ways to help kids avoid issues with alcohol and drugs is to talk with them. During the month of April the National Drug Council, along with organisations around the world will focus its efforts on Under Age Drinking as part of observing Alcohol Awareness Month. The efforts will embrace the theme, Talk Early, Talk Often: Parents Can Make a Difference in Teen Alcohol Use. Each of us has the power to make a difference in reducing underage drinking, and it begins with speech. It’s never too early to start talking with kids about this topic, and the types of conversations you’ll have will change as your child grows. So how do you begin? Set the tone. Start an open dialogue about alcohol and drugs. Children become curious about drugs and alcohol from an early age. Teen conversations can be difficult, but what you say matters a great deal to them. Be prepared. Kids will notice when a parent has a glass of wine or beer at home and will question your actions. Being responsible with your own use of alcohol is teaching them an important lesson. Establish yourself as a resource. It’s important for your children to know that they can count on you for answers to their questions. Listen with an open mind and equip yourself with both the information and strategies for answering tough questions. Words and actions can make a positive difference in the lives of others. Every day, parents, caregivers, educators, and community leaders in the Cayman Islands can make a difference by having conversations with youth about substance use and by modeling healthy choices and behaviours. Register for or organise one of our Parents as Preventers workshops for a group during the month of April. If you would like more information on starting and continuing these important conversations contact us on 949-9000, send an email to info@ndc.ky or visit us at www.ndc.ky.