by Krystina Murray | ❘
A new study performed by the Flinders University’s College of Medicine and Public Health suggests that young Australian drinkers consume lower amounts of alcohol compared to teens of other countries, all because of wanting to maintain social appearances online. A Flinders University expert on drug abuse noted the social media attitudes Australians have, which contribute to how they present themselves and behave offline. The Flinders University professor noticed Aussie’s drug and drinking patterns and have been considering changes to curb them. The correlation between drinking patterns in Australians sparked discussions in changing their drinking habits.
Flinders personnel observed the decline of drinking amongst young Australians. Despite finding lower drinking rates in young Australians, the rate of substance abuse may have been affected; meaning the rates of drug abuse is unknown and is being studied. The results revealed varying ages and levels of employment in the surveyed pool of drinkers. There were trends in stimulant use, such as decreases in cocaine and methamphetamine use. Such studies examine the connections between types of workers and drug use, with attempts to create customized treatment plans where necessary.
Another survey conducted by psychologist at the University of Houston assessed the connection between social media and alcohol use. The question on how social media impacts young drinkers habits revealed a connection between the two factors. Those on social media overestimate how much others drink, especially if they are heavy drinkers themselves. Alternatively, they underestimate how much others drink.
Additionally, those who drink are more likely to befriend others who drink, which can symbolize accepting heavy drinking in social circles. If individuals on social media broadcast heavy drinking, it may influence others who are curious about drinking to do the same. This can be a challenging issue for college students, who are vulnerable to media influences and peer pressure. Currently, 1 in 4 college students in the U.S. struggle with academic problems because of alcohol-related problems. Unfortunately, 1,800 college students die yearly from alcohol-related causes. Similarly to the Flinders University study, many have considered which treatment may be best to fight this problem.
America surveys note increases of binge drinking in baby boomers, and results in the Australian survey has similar statistics. Baby boomers are a leading group of individuals battling with alcohol-related risky behavior. The NCETA research concluded facts connecting elderly populations in Australia and their drinking habits. It has also indicted that the needs of the baby boomer population, as treatment focuses on younger populations.
The survey continued to examine both age groups, deciphering which treatment strategies are best for both groups. A recent survey noted rates of alcohol abuse decreasing in Australia. Perhaps this has stemmed from various strategies to lower drinking, such as campaigns and general awareness of the problem. Efforts seemed successful. Between 2001 and 2013 there was a 4.3% to 6% decline of drinking. Individuals aged 24 to 29 years old decreased drinking by 49%, and 14 to 17-year olds by 13%. A final strategy in lowering rates of drinking in Australia has been to increase knowledge of low risk drinking protocols for at-risk drinkers.
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Krystina Murray
Krystina Murray has received a B.A. in English at Georgia State University, has over 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, and over 15 years of overall writing experience. She enjoys traveling, fitness, crafting, and spreading awareness of addiction recovery to help people transform their lives.
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