TORONTO, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Online interventions for problem alcohol use can be effective in changing drinking behaviors and can offer a public health benefit, Canadian researchers say.
Dr. John Cunningham, senior scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, says problem drinking is a major cause of preventable deaths in Canada, as well as sickness, trauma and violence, yet many will never seek treatment.
"An unfortunate reality is that many problem drinkers do not seek treatment," Cunningham said in a statement.
"While getting help from a healthcare professional is ideal, there are barriers to access such as concerns about stigma, a desire to handle problems on one's own, or simply because treatment is not readily available. Online interventions can help reduce these barriers by allowing people to seek help in their own homes."
The study, published in the journal Addiction, found that problem drinkers provided access to the online screener www.CheckYourDrinking.net reduced their alcohol consumption by 30 percent, or six to seven drinks, weekly. That is comparable to face-to-face interventions, and were sustained in the three- and six-month follow-ups, the study showed.
"The Check Your Drinking online screener provides participants with a wealth of information about their drinking, its consequences, and how they compare to others," Cunningham said. "When presented these facts in a non-judgmental manner, participants are able to re-evaluate their drinking and may be motivated to reduce their alcohol consumption."
