Craig McNally, Senior Health Promotion Officer for Addictions, said:
“The festive period is traditionally a time when people enjoy partying and may overindulge. The quiz is designed to be a fun way for people to find out about healthier options and contacts for support.”
Laura Stephenson, Health Promotion Specialist for Sexual Health, said:
“Alcohol can greatly affect the way we behave and has a direct influence over sexual behaviour. We wanted to approach a Christmas message with some innovation and fun but there is a serious issue interlinking mental health, sexual health and sensible drinking.”
The quiz involves 6 questions about scenarios, which are commonly encountered over the Christmas period and provide the reader with information about how to look after themselves and their family and friends over the festive period.
Messages such as the sensible drinking limits (2-3 units for females; 3-4 for males per day); the importance of safer sexual practices, and who to contact for information about Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are included. The positive effects of exercising on mental health are highlighted as well as the importance of socialising with people and the positive effects that has on well-being are addressed in the quiz answers.
“There’s something for everyone in the quiz and we hope everyone will gain invaluable information and contacts from reading it”, said Health Promotion Officer Sam Souter whose focus is in mental health and well-being.
“The festive period can be difficult for people from all areas of the community. This approach is especially attractive to young people, but we hope that everyone can take something positive from reading the quiz and we would encourage everyone to take part”.
The quiz will be widely available as it is being e-mailed to NHS and Council staff. It is also being distributed in a number of local papers and can be accessed on the internet by clicking on the Argyll and Bute Community Health Partnership website. To access the quiz, go to www.nhshighland.scot.uk and click on the Argyll & Bute CHP webpages.
Notes to Editors: Argyll and Bute CHP is part of NHS Highland, the CHP works in partnership to deliver National Health priorities at a local level.
