Latest news with #SMARTRecovery
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- Health
- The Advertiser
I've seen devastation wrought by alcohol firsthand. Putting more ads on TV will not help
New proposed rules for free-to-air television in Australia could allow alcohol advertising from 10am even on weekends and during school holidays. As someone with lived experience of intergenerational addiction, I'm speaking out about this because this isn't just irresponsible, it's dangerous. When we talk about alcohol ads on television, we're not talking about harmless marketing. We're talking about messages that reach into Australian homes, living rooms and seep into young minds. I am alarmed by Free TV Australia's proposal, which would mean an additional 800 hours of alcohol advertising every year. Already, one in three children in Australia see alcohol ads on TV. This is not harmless. Research shows that 90 per cent of adults with addiction began using substances problematically before the age of 18. I know this story intimately. Addiction isn't just a theory to me. It's not a policy brief or a line in a report. It's something I was born into. I grew up in a family shaped by trauma, violence and addiction. My dad struggled with alcohol and drugs and was imprisoned. By 16, I was living in a young women's refuge and many of us there used substances to cope with trauma and family violence. We were using them to numb, to escape, to soothe the wounds no one else could see. It was a coping mechanism, our reality. But what changed my life wasn't luck. It was a community of support. Today, I'm proud to lead SMART Recovery Australia, an organisation that now supports more than 450 meetings every week across the country, including 16 youth meetings reaching over 160 young people weekly. We are growing because the need is growing. Young people are crying out for support that actually meets them where they are at. We help people manage addictive behaviours in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We also host online meetings which are available to people who live regionally and remotely, so people can get the help they need without the obstacle of distance giving them an excuse not to. Around 70 per cent of all SMART Recovery participants attend to address alcohol use, and many of our young participants are grappling with early exposure and the lifelong consequences of alcohol harm. That's why we're urging the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to reject this proposal and instead stand with front-line services, public health experts, and families across the country. To stand with young people because Australia is facing a youth addiction crisis. National surveys show that one in six adolescents are struggling with some form of addiction whether it's alcohol, vaping, gaming, or drugs. These numbers represent real young people, like the ones I see every day. They are smart, creative, hurting, but hopeful. What they need is protection, not profit-driven promotion of harmful products. We believe in giving young people real choices, real support and real hope. Because addiction is behaviour, and we can all change our behaviour if we are given the tools and resources. READ MORE: We need to protect young people, not profit from their vulnerability. We need to fund programs that work and not allow harmful industries to take up more space in their lives. Every young life matters. Every future counts, and no one should be left to face addiction alone. This is more than a policy debate. This is about more than a change in broadcasting schedules. It's a question of values. Do we value young lives, or do we value alcohol industry profits? Let's stop pushing ads into loungerooms where children are watching. Let's start backing solutions that work. We must choose prevention over profit, protection over promotion and community over chaos, because young lives depend on it. New proposed rules for free-to-air television in Australia could allow alcohol advertising from 10am even on weekends and during school holidays. As someone with lived experience of intergenerational addiction, I'm speaking out about this because this isn't just irresponsible, it's dangerous. When we talk about alcohol ads on television, we're not talking about harmless marketing. We're talking about messages that reach into Australian homes, living rooms and seep into young minds. I am alarmed by Free TV Australia's proposal, which would mean an additional 800 hours of alcohol advertising every year. Already, one in three children in Australia see alcohol ads on TV. This is not harmless. Research shows that 90 per cent of adults with addiction began using substances problematically before the age of 18. I know this story intimately. Addiction isn't just a theory to me. It's not a policy brief or a line in a report. It's something I was born into. I grew up in a family shaped by trauma, violence and addiction. My dad struggled with alcohol and drugs and was imprisoned. By 16, I was living in a young women's refuge and many of us there used substances to cope with trauma and family violence. We were using them to numb, to escape, to soothe the wounds no one else could see. It was a coping mechanism, our reality. But what changed my life wasn't luck. It was a community of support. Today, I'm proud to lead SMART Recovery Australia, an organisation that now supports more than 450 meetings every week across the country, including 16 youth meetings reaching over 160 young people weekly. We are growing because the need is growing. Young people are crying out for support that actually meets them where they are at. We help people manage addictive behaviours in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We also host online meetings which are available to people who live regionally and remotely, so people can get the help they need without the obstacle of distance giving them an excuse not to. Around 70 per cent of all SMART Recovery participants attend to address alcohol use, and many of our young participants are grappling with early exposure and the lifelong consequences of alcohol harm. That's why we're urging the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to reject this proposal and instead stand with front-line services, public health experts, and families across the country. To stand with young people because Australia is facing a youth addiction crisis. National surveys show that one in six adolescents are struggling with some form of addiction whether it's alcohol, vaping, gaming, or drugs. These numbers represent real young people, like the ones I see every day. They are smart, creative, hurting, but hopeful. What they need is protection, not profit-driven promotion of harmful products. We believe in giving young people real choices, real support and real hope. Because addiction is behaviour, and we can all change our behaviour if we are given the tools and resources. READ MORE: We need to protect young people, not profit from their vulnerability. We need to fund programs that work and not allow harmful industries to take up more space in their lives. Every young life matters. Every future counts, and no one should be left to face addiction alone. This is more than a policy debate. This is about more than a change in broadcasting schedules. It's a question of values. Do we value young lives, or do we value alcohol industry profits? Let's stop pushing ads into loungerooms where children are watching. Let's start backing solutions that work. We must choose prevention over profit, protection over promotion and community over chaos, because young lives depend on it. New proposed rules for free-to-air television in Australia could allow alcohol advertising from 10am even on weekends and during school holidays. As someone with lived experience of intergenerational addiction, I'm speaking out about this because this isn't just irresponsible, it's dangerous. When we talk about alcohol ads on television, we're not talking about harmless marketing. We're talking about messages that reach into Australian homes, living rooms and seep into young minds. I am alarmed by Free TV Australia's proposal, which would mean an additional 800 hours of alcohol advertising every year. Already, one in three children in Australia see alcohol ads on TV. This is not harmless. Research shows that 90 per cent of adults with addiction began using substances problematically before the age of 18. I know this story intimately. Addiction isn't just a theory to me. It's not a policy brief or a line in a report. It's something I was born into. I grew up in a family shaped by trauma, violence and addiction. My dad struggled with alcohol and drugs and was imprisoned. By 16, I was living in a young women's refuge and many of us there used substances to cope with trauma and family violence. We were using them to numb, to escape, to soothe the wounds no one else could see. It was a coping mechanism, our reality. But what changed my life wasn't luck. It was a community of support. Today, I'm proud to lead SMART Recovery Australia, an organisation that now supports more than 450 meetings every week across the country, including 16 youth meetings reaching over 160 young people weekly. We are growing because the need is growing. Young people are crying out for support that actually meets them where they are at. We help people manage addictive behaviours in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We also host online meetings which are available to people who live regionally and remotely, so people can get the help they need without the obstacle of distance giving them an excuse not to. Around 70 per cent of all SMART Recovery participants attend to address alcohol use, and many of our young participants are grappling with early exposure and the lifelong consequences of alcohol harm. That's why we're urging the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to reject this proposal and instead stand with front-line services, public health experts, and families across the country. To stand with young people because Australia is facing a youth addiction crisis. National surveys show that one in six adolescents are struggling with some form of addiction whether it's alcohol, vaping, gaming, or drugs. These numbers represent real young people, like the ones I see every day. They are smart, creative, hurting, but hopeful. What they need is protection, not profit-driven promotion of harmful products. We believe in giving young people real choices, real support and real hope. Because addiction is behaviour, and we can all change our behaviour if we are given the tools and resources. READ MORE: We need to protect young people, not profit from their vulnerability. We need to fund programs that work and not allow harmful industries to take up more space in their lives. Every young life matters. Every future counts, and no one should be left to face addiction alone. This is more than a policy debate. This is about more than a change in broadcasting schedules. It's a question of values. Do we value young lives, or do we value alcohol industry profits? Let's stop pushing ads into loungerooms where children are watching. Let's start backing solutions that work. We must choose prevention over profit, protection over promotion and community over chaos, because young lives depend on it. New proposed rules for free-to-air television in Australia could allow alcohol advertising from 10am even on weekends and during school holidays. As someone with lived experience of intergenerational addiction, I'm speaking out about this because this isn't just irresponsible, it's dangerous. When we talk about alcohol ads on television, we're not talking about harmless marketing. We're talking about messages that reach into Australian homes, living rooms and seep into young minds. I am alarmed by Free TV Australia's proposal, which would mean an additional 800 hours of alcohol advertising every year. Already, one in three children in Australia see alcohol ads on TV. This is not harmless. Research shows that 90 per cent of adults with addiction began using substances problematically before the age of 18. I know this story intimately. Addiction isn't just a theory to me. It's not a policy brief or a line in a report. It's something I was born into. I grew up in a family shaped by trauma, violence and addiction. My dad struggled with alcohol and drugs and was imprisoned. By 16, I was living in a young women's refuge and many of us there used substances to cope with trauma and family violence. We were using them to numb, to escape, to soothe the wounds no one else could see. It was a coping mechanism, our reality. But what changed my life wasn't luck. It was a community of support. Today, I'm proud to lead SMART Recovery Australia, an organisation that now supports more than 450 meetings every week across the country, including 16 youth meetings reaching over 160 young people weekly. We are growing because the need is growing. Young people are crying out for support that actually meets them where they are at. We help people manage addictive behaviours in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We also host online meetings which are available to people who live regionally and remotely, so people can get the help they need without the obstacle of distance giving them an excuse not to. Around 70 per cent of all SMART Recovery participants attend to address alcohol use, and many of our young participants are grappling with early exposure and the lifelong consequences of alcohol harm. That's why we're urging the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to reject this proposal and instead stand with front-line services, public health experts, and families across the country. To stand with young people because Australia is facing a youth addiction crisis. National surveys show that one in six adolescents are struggling with some form of addiction whether it's alcohol, vaping, gaming, or drugs. These numbers represent real young people, like the ones I see every day. They are smart, creative, hurting, but hopeful. What they need is protection, not profit-driven promotion of harmful products. We believe in giving young people real choices, real support and real hope. Because addiction is behaviour, and we can all change our behaviour if we are given the tools and resources. READ MORE: We need to protect young people, not profit from their vulnerability. We need to fund programs that work and not allow harmful industries to take up more space in their lives. Every young life matters. Every future counts, and no one should be left to face addiction alone. This is more than a policy debate. This is about more than a change in broadcasting schedules. It's a question of values. Do we value young lives, or do we value alcohol industry profits? Let's stop pushing ads into loungerooms where children are watching. Let's start backing solutions that work. We must choose prevention over profit, protection over promotion and community over chaos, because young lives depend on it.
The Sun
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Former TOTP presenter, 52, admits ‘I need to stop drinking' after cancer battle and tells fans ‘I find it really hard'
A TOP Of The Pops presenter has admitted she "needs to stop drinking" after bravely opening up on her cancer battle. BBC show favourite Sarah Cawood, 52 - who was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer in 2022 - has opened up on her tough struggle to go sober. 6 6 6 At the time of diagnosis two years ago, Sarah's condition meant she had to come off HRT, which she was taking for the menopause. A year later, in 2023, the London -born TV star revealed another worrying update as she found a fresh lump nine months after her initial health shock. And last year, Sarah broke down in tears as she detailed fears her cancer had returned. Now she has uploaded a fresh video to her Instagram grid showing her sitting by a window drinking a bottle of water. The broadcaster can be seen looking serious as she sips, while staring out of the window. In the clip, Sarah donned a black shirt and going make-up free, leaving her red hair in a straight style. In her extremely candid video caption, she wrote: "I need to stop drinking. Like stop completely. "I don't drink loads but I increasingly feel like I lose time when I do and it's (I think) making my arthritis worse (and there's a multitude of other issues that go along with it that we can delve into another time.) "The thing is: I FIND IT REALLY HARD NOT TO DRINK. I fall off the wagon so quickly. "I HATE when people make me feel bad about not drinking: I'm a people-pleasing drinker. I also get bored when everyone else gets boozy and I feel the FOMO and like I'm missing out on the drunken bonding. Former Top of the Pops presenter breaks down in tears amid fears her breast cancer has returned "But I've had cancer FFS! What am I even doing drinking? "So I'm putting it out here for advice and encouragement. And to show you that no matter how much it looks like someone you follow has their shit together, they probably don't behind closed doors." She wrapped the message with the simple word: "Onwards." Fans were quick to offer the TOTP alum messages of support, and one wrote: "You have acknowledged you have a problem with the horrible drink and that's the first step. So todays the first day of the future." What to do if you think are an alcoholic IF you're struggling with alcohol addiction, the most important thing is to recognise the problem and seek support - You don't have to face it alone. Seek Professional Help GP or Doctor – A medical professional can assess your situation and provide advice on treatment options. Therapists or Counsellors – Talking to an addiction specialist can help address underlying causes and develop coping strategies. Rehab or Detox Programmes – If physical dependence is severe, medically supervised detox may be necessary. Consider Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – A well-known 12-step programme that provides peer support. SMART Recovery – A science-based alternative to AA, focusing on self-empowerment. Local Support Groups – Many communities have groups tailored to different needs. Another posted: "It's just breaking that habit. Xx" A third agreed: "Not easy at all." Sarah again revealed her struggle in a candid video uploaded just hours after, following a night out. In the clip, which saw her pottering around her home before directing her dialogue to camera, she again opened up on her mission to go alcohol free. She told the camera: "The memory of drinking too much on Friday, I mean I wasn't rolling drunk, I just have no get up and go. "I like the sober life, I really do. "I lasted six weeks for Dry January, then you just slip back really slowly don't you into old ways." LASTING IMPACT Previously, Sarah told of the lasting impact of her cancer diagnosis. In a post last year, she admitted the fear of the disease making a return. It also came after she opened up on her money worries as she juggled her health issues. Sarah told fans: "It never leaves you. The fear that It's Back." "I'm sure it's nothing to worry about but here's the thing: I'm happier than I've ever been. "My life is wonderful and I don't want it to end anytime soon, and this stupid f**king thing that I had, it's always there, like a shadow on a sunny day, threatening to ruin this amazing life I'm leading. "I hope I'm overreacting, and I'm sure I am, but I'm posting this because this is the reality of having cancer: it never ever really leaves you. "The disease does, but the anxiety is with you for the rest of your life. Here's hoping it's a long and healthy one." 6 6 6
The Sun
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Love Island hunk calls himself a ‘borderline crackhead' after beating secret drink and drug addiction after villa
A LOVE Island hunk has called himself a 'borderline crackhead' after beating a secret drink and drug addiction after the villa. The reality star shot to fame on the fifth series of the ITV2 dating show in 2019 and fell madly in love with Jourdan Rianne. 7 7 7 7 But now Danny Williams has opened up on his struggle, as he got candid with fans on social media. The northern lad wrote a lengthy statement, telling his 388,000 followers that he'd gone two years without alcohol. Danny shared: 'For those that don't know, I was a borderline crackhead for many years. 'Long story short I covered my pain with drink and substances because I wasn't ready to face my own demons.' Danny continued: 'Instead of constantly avoiding discomfort I'm facing it every single day BY CHOICE and becoming a better human, partner, son and future father because of it. 'I know that it's 'socially acceptable' to drink. 'And I'm not here to say that anyone else needs to cut it out of their life completely either. 'But running away from discomfort because it doesn't 'feel nice' in the moment is the fastest way to eliminate your self esteem and completely feel inadequate in life.' Danny went on to tell fans that 'taking control of your fears' would 'set you free.' Ex Love Island star accuses show bosses of 'manipulation behind the scenes' He then went on to promote his eight week Summer Sculpt Challenge, where he'll help people "step into their full potential.' Danny can be found promoting his fitness and health journey on social media. And he also shares regular snaps with his stunning girlfriend Beckie Hughes. The reality hunk appears to have settled down after looking for love on Love Island. What to do if you think are an alcoholic IF you're struggling with alcohol addiction, the most important thing is to recognise the problem and seek support - You don't have to face it alone. Seek Professional Help GP or Doctor – A medical professional can assess your situation and provide advice on treatment options. Therapists or Counsellors – Talking to an addiction specialist can help address underlying causes and develop coping strategies. Rehab or Detox Programmes – If physical dependence is severe, medically supervised detox may be necessary. Consider Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – A well-known 12-step programme that provides peer support. SMART Recovery – A science-based alternative to AA, focusing on self-empowerment. Local Support Groups – Many communities have groups tailored to different needs. After Jourdan entered Casa Amor on day 26, the actress caught the eyes of Danny, and they coupled up shortly after. Ten days later the pair received the fewest votes from the public and were booted off the show. The former couple made a go of things back in the UK and even moved in together, but a month later went their separate ways after a cheating scandal. Then two years later, The Sun revealed that Danny was seeing someone new. He was dating Leah Taylor, who went on to star on Love Island herself. Danny has now moved on with brunette beauty Beckie, and appeared smitten in February as he shared photos from their date night in Dubai. 7 7
