A new self-help website that aims to help those struggling with alcohol misuse issues to diagnose and treat themselves will be launched this week.
The ‘www.247helpyourself.com’ site, which has been developed by Professor John McMahon, a senior lecturer in drug and alcohol studies at the University of the West of Scotland, will “equip and empower” individuals with the tools to treat themselves.
McMahon told Holyrood: “Usually, websites that deal with alcohol and drug issues use the internet as a calculator. They get you to fill out questionnaires and feedback two or three pieces of advice, depending on your score.
“We are doing things completely differently and are moving away from a medicalised approach to an empowerment approach.”
The site, McMahon said, “will do what a good counsellor should do,” using audio and video files to show people how they can assess themselves and set their own goals, as well as offering advice and support about how to achieve them. Subscribers will also be sent daily motivational phrases and messages of congratulations as they achieve their goals.
The site, which will require a membership fee to access, was originally designed with the American market in mind. However, McMahon says it has also attracted considerable interest in Scotland, and he is currently in talks with one of Scotland’s largest health boards and the Scottish Drug and Alcohol Actions Teams to see if it could be rolled out further.
One person has commented on this article. 1. Alcohol misuse self-help website to be launched
Gail Mullard, Unregistered I think the website www.247helpyourself.com should be part of every public service's Alcohol and Drug Policy as it gives employees a chance to receive help and guidance privately, yet in conjunction with their HR dept and show in a tangible way that they are helping themselves overcome their issues with alcohol. | 
