As part of its winter campaign, the Outer Hebrides Alcohol & Drug Partnership published an article on ‘Alcohol & Mental Health’ in local newsletters and the Events magazine to inform the public on the affects of drinking too much alcohol; advice on cutting down and the longer term benefits. Links to apps drinks tracker and unit calculators were included.

Informative text messages were also posted on facebook, twitter and NHS website for 12 days over the Christmas and New Year period providing information on alcohol, drugs and safe sexual health and the OHADP Parents’ Night poster was also posted on facebook, website and twitter.

Text messages read:

Don’t let alcohol spoil the festive season for the family #drinkaware
#scottishfamiliesaffectedbyalcoholanddrugs

Drinking more than 14 units per week can affect your health. 14 units = 6 medium size glasses of wine @ 14% alcohol strength OR 6 pints of lager @4% alcohol strength OR 6 pints of cider @ 4% alcohol strength #alcoholunits #alcoholfocus

Is an STI or unintended pregnancy on your Xmas wish list? Condoms can prevent both. Free condoms available from HIRS office, Health Centre, Stornoway or GP practices #sexualhealthscotland

Alcohol can interfere with prescribed medications. Please check with your GP or pharmacist if it is safe to drink alcohol #drinkaware

Taking illegal drugs is taking a risk – how open are you about your social drug use? How would you feel if your family knew? #knowthescore #sfad

Cocaine overdose – do you know the signs? Increased heart rate; high body temperature; increased blood pressure; confusion leading to psychosis; agitation and aggression. #knowthescore #talktofrank

FASD – know you’re not pregnant before you start drinking. Free pregnancy tests available at Health Information & Resources Service, Health Centre, Stornoway #fasdscotland #sexualhealthscotland

Drinkers perception VS drinkers reality – Make sure YOU stay in control and don’t wake up with regrets #drinkaware

Alcohol & cocaine produces a toxic chemical ‘cocaethylene’ which increases risk of damage to your heart and liver #knowthescore #talktofrank

Alcohol abuse impacts on a young person’s developing brain – think about it#knowthescore #sfad #FASD

Next day regrets? Emergency contraception is freely available from all pharmacists & GP practices. More effective when taken earlier.#sexualhealthscotland