STUDENTS from the Isle of Man College have been given advice on how to "survive" the Christmas period.
Local organisations attended the annual Christmas survival fayre on Thursday, December 1, to offer information and guidance to students.
Student welfare officer Julie Bibby said: "The fayre had two aims – helping students keep safe, while enjoying partying, and offering support to those for whom Christmas can be a sad, lonely, difficult or stressful time.
"Lots of students participated in the activities and chatted with the stall holders - hopefully they picked up some helpful tips as well as knowledge of local support agencies."
Representatives from the Public Health directorate gave out 'It's Up To Me' cards which promote a safe night out. Condoms were also available to encourage students to have safe sex.
Michelle Poyzer, senior health improvement officer, said: "We have had a lot of interest from the students and most have taken one of the 'It’s Up To Me' credit cards that contain helpful contact numbers.
"Students have been able to ask questions about sexual health and risk taking behaviour and have been made aware of the agencies and websites that will be able to provide them with confidential help.
"The Alcohol Advisory Service raised awareness of hypothermia when drinking as a lot of the symptoms are very similar and it is imperative for young people to realise the potential consequences which could be avoided by wrapping up and recognising the warning signs."
At the DASH (Drug Advice Service and Helpline) stand students could use the 'Riskometer' to assess risks present in various Christmas related scenarios.
Drug support worker Becky Daglish said: "The Riskometer generated some good conversations. I was impressed at how open and willing the students are to considering advice about keeping themselves safe."
The Department of Infrastructure's Road Safety Team spoke to students about the dangers of drink driving following the launch of the 2011 anti-drink driving campaign.
Victim Support reminded students to keep sexually safe particularly over the festive period. Manager Paula Gelling said: "Our message is to let your hair down not your guard and to remind people that sexual regret is not rape. We hope nobody becomes a victim of crime but if they do we are here to help to talk things through."
The Samaritans were also on hand to talk to promote the work of the charity. Les, a volunteer for the organisation, said:"We know what a stressful and lonely time Christmas can be for some young people and we wanted to come along today to remind them that the Samaritans are available 24/7 all year round including Christmas Day."
Cruse Bereavement Care also exhibited at the event. Manager Amanda Cafearo said: "We are here to talk about Christmas and what it means to people especially if they are experiencing loss and loneliness through bereavement."
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