Voice of the Children: Alcohol in the eyes of the young

Overview

Harmful use of alcohol is a risk factor for many diseases and injury conditions, there are untold stories of the loss of loved ones and income, of family break-up and neglected children, of depression and loneliness, of violence and abuse. The harmful use of alcohol also leads to risky behaviours among the youth, including drink-driving, fighting, drowning, self-harm and suicide. As the young are among the most affected, they must have a voice in shaping the response to this key public health issue. This publication helps in giving expression to young people’s thoughts, feelings and emotions. Through their art, the young have demonstrated how well they understand the consequences of the harmful use of alcohol. They also have interesting solutions to offer. The message that came out strongly from their artwork is simple and pointed: STOP alcohol use.