Yes it is that time of year, hot, hot, hot – fabulous when it is weather, not so great when it is a violent temper… Add alcohol and you have an explosive combination, add being a sexual minority and it gets worse. 
I am afraid to say that our community is overrepresented when it comes to alcohol and other drug consumption, with estimates that we consume 3-4% more than the general population. We are also overrepresented when it comes to being victims of violence.

A Harvard School of Public Health study last year found that gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and heterosexuals who have ever had a same-sex partner were one to two times more likely to have experienced a violent event (especially in childhood) than the general population. People who have experienced violence have double the risk of experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and one of the consequences of PTSD is a high risk for victimisation. It’s likely that we all know someone with PTSD – so it’s helpful to know that this person is vulnerable to being a victim of violence.


The New Zealand Crime and Safety Survey (NZCASS) 2006 found 41% of violent offenders were judged by their victims to be affected by alcohol. The link between alcohol consumption and violence is undeniable.


So what does this all mean? It means that we as a community have to be extra diligent about having those difficult conversations with people we think may be at risk. These conversations need to be with people who are at risk of being violent and with those who are at risk of being a victim of violence. By raising the subject, you are showing them that you care and you are someone they can talk to. 
You may ask – how does one do this? It is all about timing, showing respect and being empathetic, eg, “You know that I am here for you if you want to talk about anything”. Ask open questions eg, “I noticed that you are a bit down – how is it going between you two?” “Last night you were not yourself – is anything upsetting you at the moment?” Ask them for their perspective eg, “Do you have any concerns about…?” You can probably expect denial at first, but at least you have indicated that you have noticed and this can be a powerful intervention. You are telling them that they are not alone, they do not need to feel isolated and that they have options.


We also have an ongoing responsibility to model responsible drinking. This involves being a good host: eg providing non-alcoholic drinks, water and plenty of food if you are having a party and intervening if your guests are behaving badly or wanting to drive home intoxicated. 
All it takes for people to be victimised is that their community turns a blind eye – let’s not be that community.

| Diana Rands


If you have concerns about your own or someone else’s alcohol or other drug use, or if you’d like more information, contact CADS on 09 845 1818 or www.cads.org.nz or if you live outside Auckland contact Alcohol and Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.