NEWS RELEASE
SIMCOE MUSKOKA DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
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Twenty-nine days without a drop of beer, wine or liquor.
People are being asked to try it in February, during Simcoe Muskoka’s second annual Ready To Be Thirsty Challenge.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is issuing the challenge to local residents, and to their friends, family and colleagues. It’s time to Lose the Booze or Go Easy.
Ready To Be Thirsty is intended to raise awareness about the benefits of reducing alcohol intake, or of trying to be alcohol free altogether.
It will give participants an understanding of the social pressures that push people to drink, and sometimes drink more than they plan.
Those who join are encouraged to share their experiences through social media, or with friends and family.
Whether they make it through the month, or fail several times over, all perspectives are welcome.
“Our research shows that very few people stop to think about the amount they’re drinking or whether they should cut back,” said public health nurse Doug Ironside.
In Simcoe and Muskoka, 83 per cent of adults are current alcohol drinkers, and more than a quarter of adults are drinking at a rate that puts their long-term health at increased risk.
The Ready To Be Thirsty Challenge acknowledges the social and emotional aspects of alcohol. It offers an opportunity to examine our reasons for drinking while promoting enjoyment in moderation.
Beyond the sense of accomplishment of staying off alcohol for the month, Ironside says people are likely to notice they sleep better, have more energy, might lose a few pounds—and are saving money.
One way to participate is to “like” the Ready2BThirsty Facebook page. It’s an opportunity for people to share their successes and challenges. Or if public sharing is not for you let your family and friends know, form your own Ready to be Thirsty group and challenge each other.
This challenge doesn’t require sign up, there are no donations to collect. It’s about all about YOU.
People can also post to Twitter, using the hashtag #R2BT, or follow @SMhowmanydrinks.
For more information, visit www.smdhu.org/thirst, or www.howmanydrinks.org. Or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
