First aid for problem drinking is the help provided to a person developing a drinking problem or in an alcohol-related crisis (e.g. alcohol poisoning). The first aid is given until appropriate professional treatment is received or until the crisis resolves. At present, there are conflicting views about how to support a person with drinking problems. Thus, the aim of this project is to get consensus between experts (clinicians, consumers and carers) on the best way to help.

Once developed, the Guidelines will direct the Mental Health First Aid training program. The MHFA training program was developed in 2000 in an attempt to provide basic knowledge to people on how to help someone who is experiencing mental health difficulties (see http://www.mhfa.com.au/ for more details). The course has been very well-received by the Australian public and has now been taught in Scotland, the USA, Hong Kong, Canada, Ireland, Finland, and the UK.

To create guidelines of international relevance, we are inviting people with expertise in problem drinking to participate from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the US. We have identified your organisation as a source of potential carer or consumer experts.  We would be grateful if you could pass on information about this project to any individuals who fit the following criteria:

Carer - someone who has cared for a person who has had a drinking problem and is now in an advocacy role

Consumer - someone who has at some time had drinking problems but is currently functioning well and able to reflect on their experience

The total time commitment for this project is estimated to be approximately two hours. You are not required to attend any meetings as all contact will be via the internet, or if you prefer, by paper mail.  Please click on this link for further information about this project. If you would like to participate in this research, please let us know, by either replying to this email, or by contacting Anna Kingston at the details provided below.

Once established, these guidelines will empower members of the public to provide crucial and appropriate support to family, friends or loved ones who are believed to be experiencing or developing a drinking problem.

Please note: Later this year, other first aid guidelines will be developed for problematic use of illegal drugs, for example, cannabis. If you feel your area of expertise would be better suited to substances other than alcohol, please email Anna annahk@unimelb.edu.au  and she can email information about these projects as they develop.