20.11.2024 - One in three Norwegians has been concerned about the drinking habits of someone close to them. A new tool aims to help Norwegians start a conversation about alcohol.
“Almost everyone in the population drinks, and alcohol plays an important social role for many. Yet, Norwegians hesitate to voice concerns about others' drinking habits. 'Alkoholpraten' aims to change that,” says Ragnhild Kaski from Av-og-til.
The alcohol awareness organization is launching a new low-threshold support tool today at Alkoholpraten.no for those worried about someone’s alcohol habits. The goal is to help people initiate difficult conversations and reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol discussions in society.
“Whether it’s a minor concern or a major one, if you’re worried, you have the right to take that concern seriously,” says Kaski.
Alcohol expert Fanny Duckert: "This is much needed!"
Psychologist and alcohol expert Fanny Duckert, who provided guidance during the development of the tool, emphasizes its importance:
“This low-threshold tool is absolutely necessary! I meet many people who need practical advice on how to approach such conversations,” says Duckert.
Duckert has extensive experience as a psychologist specializing in alcohol issues, a researcher, and the author of numerous books on the subject. She explains that several factors contribute to why Norwegians hesitate to discuss alcohol with someone they are concerned about. Common reasons include fear of the reaction they might face or worry about seeming hypocritical since they themselves drink alcohol.
“Many also question whether they are the right person to bring it up or whether their concern is justified,” says Duckert.
Common pitfalls
Since discussing alcohol habits can be a sensitive issue, "Alkoholpraten" provides advice on how to address concerns effectively. There are several pitfalls to be aware of when bringing up alcohol-related concerns.
“It’s a bad idea to address the issue when one or more people are under the influence of alcohol. It’s also important to focus on your own experiences and avoid approaches like ‘you need to stop’ or ‘you drink too much,’ which can come across as an attack,” explains Kaski.
Despite the challenges, Av-og-til encourages people to have the conversation.
“Unfortunately, carrying the concern alone over time won’t help. Nor will it help the person who might be struggling with alcohol. We also know that many people who seek help for alcohol issues do so because someone else has expressed concern,” says Kaski.
About "Alkoholpraten"
Alkoholpraten.no was developed by Av-og-til in collaboration with experts in the field, inspired by Sweden’s IQ initiative. The tool allows users to fill in details about who and what they are worried about, as well as their fears about what might happen. In return, they receive tailored advice and strategies to address their concerns with the individual in question.
About the survey
The survey was conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Av-og-til, using a nationally representative sample of 2,507 people. Respondents were asked whether, in the past two years, they "had been concerned that a friend or family member was developing an alcohol problem." Thirty-six percent answered "yes" to the question.
Source: avogtil.no