New drinking guidelines can help reduce stigma, says mental health expert

New drinking guidelines that were released earlier this month are meant to help Canadians make informed choices about drinking.

That’s according to the Saskatchewan Health Authority, which says the guidelines went through a thorough consultation process.

Kathy Willerth, the SHA’s director of mental health and addictions, said she does not believe people struggling with addictions will be impacted by the new guidelines.

“They might really recognize that this kind of guidance would be really valuable for the population in preventing and developing an addiction,” she said.

Earlier this month, the Canadian Centre of Substance Use and Addiction recommended that people don’t have more than two drinks per week.

Willerth explained the guidelines speak much more broadly to the risks of health issues such as cancer and cardiovascular health issues.

She said the drinking guidelines could help reduce the stigma.

“The more that we talk about the potential risks and provide tips and strategies for people to be able to have a healthy relationship with alcohol, that really takes steps to help reducing stigma,” Willerth said.

She added when the consultation process was underway, it was extensive.

“It certainly included people who have lived or have living experience with addictions,” Willerth said. “Their advice was a part of the advice that they sought in coming up with their final document and their final recommendations.”

As for helping people with addictions, she recommends building awareness and prevention. She said that’s one of the roles for the new guidelines.

Additionally, Willerth said knowing what services are available and opening discussions are good tools to help people struggling with addictions.