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Thursday 16 August 2007
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Heading - Your health and alcohol... find the right mix

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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:

  • Try Changing the Mix yourself. Call 1800 18 08 68 to get started.
  • 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.
  • 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:
http://www.therightmix.gov.au/subscribe.asp

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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