Parental Problem Alcohol Use
A new study from UCC and Alcohol Action Ireland has found that the majority of mental health professionals receive no training on problem alcohol use in the home. This is despite an estimated 200,000 children and 400,000 adults who live with the serious phycological impact of PPAU in Ireland today.
Toolkit
The study also found that 92% of participants would be supportive of all Mental Health professionals being trained to identify individuals who experience PPAU. In response to this, Alcohol Action Ireland have developed a digital Toolkit which aims to provide awareness and understanding around problem alcohol use and its impact.
CEO of AAI, Sheila Gilheany said:
“We have been highlighting the issue of PPAU in Ireland for many years and have known that many professionals don’t get trained on how to talk to people about it. However, it is still shocking to see the statistics laid bare in the research highlighted today. We have known for many years that there is a high prevalence of PPAU in people with mental health issues. Mental health professionals must understand this in order that people can get the correct assistance. It also illustrates a need for a whole-of-government approach, with an identifiable senior government official who has responsibility to advise, develop and plan appropriate services to address the multiple needs of the 600,000 children and adults affected.”
I am incredibly proud to be on the board of directors for AAI, and to be an advocate of the wonderful work they are doing.
