Puok Alcoholism Project
Alcoholism is a major public health problem in Puok. Research done in Puok suggests that 25% of residents suffer from Alcohol Use Disorders as defined by the World Health Organization.
Wide availability together with low cost of beer (less than USD$0.50/can) and local rice wines make regular alcohol use affordable for most. In addition, many people start drinking at a very young age, with some even starting as children.
These two factors in combination start many on a path of no return and once addicted, there are few options available for treatment in a health system already overwhelmed with many other health prorities.
Alcoholism In Puok
Fighting problem drinking
Alcoholism destroys families and is a key barrier to community cohesion and growth in the rural communities of Puok. Problems directly resulting from the irresponsible use of alcohol include domestic violence, road accidents.
Over a long period of time, it can lead to serious damage to the liver and brain leading to permanent damage to both organs. Chronic alcoholism also increases the risks of many cancers.
Alcoholism can have serious consequences on household and personal finances. Alcoholics often face difficulties in work and this could threaten employment.
“Her husband has tried to beat their small child. Yes, beat the small child. Yeah and he fight (or bite) his son, 1 year old only. Just when he got drunk he will do that.” -Resident
“Because of drinking...sometimes I don't not have enough money to give the children to go to school.” -Alcoholic
PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN
Public performances
In May 2013, villagers were enteratined by public performances over four nights in two different villages. The performances, featuring local youth volunteers, covered themes related to alcohol abuse including drink driving, domestic violence, health problems and risky sexual behaviour. The audience participated enthusiastically in the question and answer session at the end of each performance.
Upcoming: Door to Door visits
Over a period of 10 months from July 2014 to May 2015 we will conduct bimonthly seminars and workshops with local commune development committee and youth volunteers for door to door visits. Households with problems of alcoholism will be given particular attention. Through these visits, we aim to increase community response and initiative to tackle this problem.
BUILDING LOCAL CAPACITY
Lasting change happens when we invest in people
Workshops
Since May 2013, three workshops have been conducted with local village development commitee members and leaders. The sessions were conducted over 2-4 days and participants were introduced to conducting community appraisals and community organising. Leaders attending the workshops were encouraged to start their own projects while our trainers taught them methods to rediscover already available local resources that would minimize the reliance on external funding.
