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Edition 5 - December 2003
Veterans are Changing Their Mix
Veterans and war widows are having success changing their drinking, rewarding
themselves in time for Christmas. War widows, World War II, Korean and Vietnam
veterans and defence force personnel have signed up for Changing the Mix,
the self-help correspondence program offered as part of The Right Mix package.
A Little More Energy
Patricia, a 74-year-old war widow, was one of the first to join up and to finish
the ten-week program. She's tried to cut down before, but this time she's
managed to halve the amount she drinks - and is sticking to it. Before starting Changing
the Mix, Patricia was depressed and often didn't have enough energy to
cook herself a decent meal. Now, she says she's looking after her diet and
feeling much healthier.
An Early Christmas Present
Vietnam veteran Ed feels like he's given his family an early Christmas present.
He started the program hoping to cut down, but surprised himself by cutting out
drinking altogether. Since finishing the program, Ed's thinking more clearly
and generally feeling better about himself. Most importantly, his family is a
lot happier with him.
Better Sleep
Changing the Mix helped World War II veteran Vic realise that a few
glasses of wine quickly mounts up! Vic is pleased that he's changed his
drinking from 'high-risk' to 'low-risk', by cutting back and not drinking at
all for two days a week. He reckons he's sleeping better.
Ways to Help Yourself
Patricia, Ed and Vic are like most people who decide to change their drinking -
they usually do it on their own. Changing the Mix can help. Many report that
they like the program because it's private and can be done at home and, in
their own time. If you would like to do something about your drinking, here are
some things you can do:
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Try Changing the Mix yourself. Call 1800 18 08 68 to get started.
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Get a copy of Changing the Mix: A Guide to Low-Risk Drinking at
http://www.therightmix.gov.au/veteran.asp or from DVA on 133 254.
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Talk to your doctor or other health professional.
Latest News
Handy Hints for Christmas
The festive season is on us again and, despite best intentions, most of us
finish up a little the worse for wear. Eating, drinking and making merry often
ends up in a familiar list of New Year resolutions. You can keep healthy this
festive season and still join in the fun by trying one or two of the Ten Tips
for Low-Risk Drinking. Hosting a party? Join ex-service organisations in trying
the Handy Hints for Functions.
You can download or order copies from:
http://www.therightmix.gov.au/veteran.asp
Need Help at Christmas?
It's worth remembering there are many who find this time of year difficult,
particularly if they are on their own. Veterans are especially good at looking
out for other veterans, but if you think someone needs help, talk to your local
VVCS - Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service, which is available to all veterans and
their families. For more information, go to:
http://www.therightmix.gov.au/counselling.asp
Having one or two alcohol-free days a week can be a bit of a challenge when
there seems to be a Christmas do every day, but the Ten Tips show how easy it
can be to stay healthy, but still have fun.
Tell a Mate
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Email them this link so they can subscribe:
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Next Edition
Today's Mix will be back in February. Don't forget, we welcome your ideas
for stories. With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year...
The Right Mix team

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