Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, May 25, 2023
Alcohol harm among rangatahi Māori, Pasifika young people, and Rainbow young people is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. The first step in addressing alcohol harm is understanding the underlying factors that contribute to it.
Historically, Maori and Pasifika populations in New Zealand have experienced higher rates of alcohol-related harm compared to the general population. This includes a higher prevalence of alcohol-related health problems, such as liver disease, injuries, and mental health issues.
Why adolescent drinking matters
The Ministry of Health recommends that children and young people under 18 years do not drink any alcohol. Those under 15 years of age are at the greatest risk of harm from drinking alcohol and not drinking in this age group is especially important. If 15 to 17 year olds do drink alcohol, they should be supervised, drink infrequently and at levels below and never exceeding the adult daily limits (no more than three drinks per day for males and 2 drinks for females).
For a number of reasons, young people experience more harm per drink than older age groups. Drinking alcohol in adolescence is associated with short and long term harms, such as injuries, unwanted and/or unprotected sex, depression, suicidality, impacts on relationships and school performance. Some alcohol-related harms, such as negative impacts on brain development, are irreversible, and can impact on learning. People who start binge drinking at a young age are also more likely to experience mental health problems in adulthood, including addiction to alcohol or other drugs. This is why preventing alcohol harm in rangatahi is important.
Maori and Pasifika Youth
Rangatahi Māori and Pasifika young people often face socioeconomic and cultural barriers that can lead to higher rates of alcohol consumption and harm. For example, poverty, unemployment, and discrimination can lead to stress and mental health issues, which can in turn lead to alcohol use as a coping mechanism. Additionally, cultural factors such as the normalisation of heavy drinking in some communities can contribute to higher rates of alcohol use and harm.
According to Dr. Keri Lawson-Te Aho, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Otago, New Zealand, addressing alcohol harm among Māori and Pasifika young people requires a deep understanding of the social and cultural factors that contribute to alcohol use and harm. She emphasises the importance of a collaborative approach that involves working with communities, young people, and whānau (family) to develop culturally responsive prevention and intervention programs. This includes addressing the root causes of alcohol harm, such as poverty and inequality, and promoting positive cultural values and practices.
Rainbow Youth
Rainbow young people also face unique challenges related to alcohol harm. They may experience discrimination, isolation, and other forms of marginalisation, which can lead to higher rates of mental health issues and substance use. Additionally, some Rainbow young people may use alcohol as a way to cope with the stress and anxiety associated with coming out and navigating the challenges of being a part of a marginalized community.
According to Dr. Jaimie Veale, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Waikato, New Zealand, addressing alcohol harm among Rainbow young people requires a multi-faceted approach that acknowledges the unique challenges and experiences of this population. She emphasises the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for Rainbow young people, including schools and healthcare settings, and providing access to mental health services that are culturally competent and affirming. She also stresses the need to challenge social and cultural norms that stigmatise and marginalise Rainbow young people, and to promote positive messaging around healthy coping mechanisms and self-care practices.
Addressing the matter and finding solutions
To address alcohol harm among these groups, it is important to take a culturally responsive approach that acknowledges and addresses these underlying factors. This may include:
- Supporting the development of culturally responsive and evidence-based prevention programs that are tailored to the specific needs and experiences of rangatahi Māori, Pasifika young people, and Rainbow young people.
- Providing access to culturally competent and holistic mental health services that address the underlying stressors and mental health issues that contribute to alcohol use.
- Working with community leaders and organisations to challenge and change the cultural norms around heavy drinking in some communities, and promoting positive social norms around responsible alcohol use.
- Providing support and resources for Rainbow young people to navigate the challenges of coming out and accessing supportive communities.
- Advocating for policies and programs that address the socioeconomic and cultural barriers that contribute to alcohol harm among these groups, such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to education and employment opportunities.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
