Prevention and education

Preventing harmful alcohol use begins with supporting strong communities. When people have the opportunity to be involved in culture, and where there is access to education, employment and stable accommodation there is less demand for alcohol [23519]. Strategies and programs that nurture social connections and encourage people to look after their health, help to support community members to make healthy choices in their lives.

Education on the harms of alcohol use also has a role in preventing alcohol use. People can make informed choices when they know more about the short and long term effects of alcohol use, including the harms they might not be aware of such as the risk of diabetes and liver disease. Education may be provided through school-based education programs, advertising campaigns, community information sessions or providing people with advice on where to get help [34063].