A NEW smart phone app is helping current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force to think before they drink.
By tracking their drinking habits and learning about the effect alcohol has on their wellbeing and fitness, On Track with The Right Mix is designed to help users choose safer drinking habits and a healthier lifestyle.
“Binge drinking, and drinking above low-risk levels are associated with a range of harms including, in the short term, alcohol-related violence and aggression and road trauma and falls,” said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon in launching the app.
“In the longer term, there is increased risk of cancer, heart disease, brain damage and deterioration in relationships and social functioning.
“On Track with the Right Mix was designed specifically for the veteran and ADF communities but can be used by anyone in the community who wants to track their alcohol intake.
“The app allows users to track their drinking habits, set a budget for a night out, learn about the effect alcohol has on their wellbeing and fitness, and how much exercise is needed to burn off the alcohol calories. Settings can also be personalised according to gender, height and weight.
The app is based on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs The Right Mix
alcohol management website – www.therightmix.gov.au – designed to help users choose safer drinking habits and a healthier lifestyle. It also drew from feedback from user testing.