Public Health Alert – Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat
Channel: Saint Lucia Government
Date: 19/12/2020

The Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat of the Department of Health and Wellness extends season’s greetings to everyone. As we celebrate this festive season, the Secretariat encourages caution in activities involving substance use. Avoiding the harmful use of alcohol, as well as the use and exposure to tobacco smoke are important safe-guards as these substances cause serious health risks and increase the risk for contracting COVID-19 and its complications. We wish to remind the public of the dangers of binge drinking. Drinking more than 5 drinks for men and more than 4 drinks for women in one sitting is considered binge drinking. This practice of heavy alcohol consumption affects judgement, self-control and decision making and is associated with injury or harm to one’s self and others. Remember the body can only absorb one standard alcoholic drink in an hour so drink less and slowly to avoid intoxication. 
As we continue in the fight against COVID-19, we need to protect our immune system especially our respiratory system and lungs. Tobacco smoke from cigarettes and emissions from other tobacco products increase the risk for developing cancers, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and other chronic conditions such as respiratory conditions; COPD, bronchitis, and asthma. For this reason it is very important to adhere to the new smoking laws that prohibit smoking in workplaces, enclosed and public spaces such as bars, restaurants, beaches and parks. 
 As this season has brought about new challenges, we are encouraged to avoid indulging in substance use and misuse as coping mechanisms for stress relief. It is ok to feel stressed, but we must deal with our emotions in healthy ways.  Healthy coping practices include; relaxation techniques, prayer and meditation, talking to someone you trust and keeping a positive mind-set. Please seek professional help if you are struggling with stress management. Let’s pay special attention to our children, they feel stressed too. Family support is an important aspect of stress management for children. Remember it is not safe under any circumstances to introduce minors to alcohol, tobacco or any other drugs. 
Let us celebrate this season safely, soberly and peacefully and include the COVID-19 protocols in our plans for family gathering.  Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to All.