By Esther Lauaki
Indian migrants to Wyndham and Hobsons Bay are among those consuming “risky levels” of alcohol, a new study has revealed.
The report, sanctioned earlier this year by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, explored alcohol and drug related issues within people aged between 25 and 44 in the Indian community – particularly in the west.
Researcher Ruchika Rawat said the aim of the study, which included Wyndham and Hobsons Bay residents, was to investigate alcohol-related perspectives and possible harm.
“This large influx of migrants has not been without issues associated with settling in a new country, a new culture and adjusting to working in Australia,” Ms Rawat said.
She said the report revealed a “perceived” increase in alcohol consumption among the participants in both daily and habitual drinking as well as binge drinking at social events.
“Men tended to drink more frequently and at higher levels, compared with women,” Ms Rawat said.
She said the data showed that more education around safe drinking levels was needed.
“We found notable barriers in seeking formal and informal help because of a perceived social stigma, or reluctance to seek help from mainstream services because of their lack of understanding of Indian cultural norms,” Ms Rawat said.
“The next step for this project is raising community awareness, increasing engagement workshops along with the development of a community action plan and culturally appropriate health resources.”
