TORONTO, ON Dec 1, 2021 - As the holiday season rolls in, even when we intend to drink responsibly, it can be difficult to stick to the plan. With a long-standing record of promoting safe alcohol consumption, LCBO, one of the world’s largest retailers of beverage alcohol, is enabling Ontarians to sip smarter by adding the Managing Alcohol Use Guided CBT Program from leading mental health provider MindBeacon to their list of resources for making responsible choices about consumption.
Rooted in evidence-based best practice, MindBeacon delivers high-quality mental health solutions across the spectrum of mental health problems and concerns, including managing alcohol use. MindBeacon is transforming the mental healthcare experience connecting with individuals in new ways, how and where they want it, to optimize engagement to improve outcomes.
Being equipped with the skills to manage drinking is more important now than ever. According to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, at least 20% of Canadian drinkers consume alcohol above the levels recommended by the low risk alcohol drinking (LRAD) guidelines. Almost a quarter (24%) believe that their alcohol consumption increased compared to pre-pandemic levels . Through the Spirit of Sustainability, LCBO’s social impact platform, the organization is committed to providing resources for safe and informed consumption to help Ontarians make responsible drinking choices.
Gaining control over drinking habits can lead to improved health, reduced depression and anxiety, as well as a boost of confidence and self-esteem. It may also help people get back to living the life they want to have. MindBeacon’s ‘Managing Alcohol Use’ program which is now listed on the LCBO’s Responsible Service Program page was developed in consultation with experts at The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). The program uses the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and a harm reduction approach to manage alcohol consumption and develop strategies to cope with cravings.
“Unhealthy relationships with alcohol can have negative effects on mental and physical health. New and accessible interventions can help individuals looking to change their relationship with alcohol and lead healthier lives.” said Dr. Leorra Newman, PhD, C.Psych., Clinical Content Lead of MindBeacon. “We are delighted that LCBO is enabling access to MindBeacon’s evidence-based Managing Alcohol Use program and resources.”
About MindBeacon
MindBeacon provides a continuum of mental healthcare that includes self-guided psychoeducational and wellness content, Peer-to-Peer Support, Therapist Guided CBT Programs and Live Therapy Sessions all offered virtually through its secure and private platform. As one of the first commercially available, digitally-native platforms to offer therapist-assisted internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in Canada, MindBeacon's professional service is designed around end users – their health, their way. Working with employers, insurance carriers and government ministries, MindBeacon offers services that are accessible, available, affordable and, most importantly, proven to be effective. MindBeacon is changing the therapy landscape by making professional care available to every person, no matter when, where and how they choose to access it.
SOURCE MindBeacon Holdings Inc.