Brazilian municipalities confront rising alcohol‑related challenges in schools and health services

In Ubatuba, São Paulo, the Centro de Referência de Assistência Social (CRAS) Oeste team held an awareness session on March 22 at Escola Estadual José Celestino Aranha. The event, part of “Dia C – Day of Combatting Alcohol Use in Adolescence and Families,” gathered about ten families to discuss the risks of teenage drinking, the influence of social media, and the importance of family and community support. Psychologist Ricardo Falleiros and CRAS coordinator Kelly Prado highlighted the collaboration between social assistance and education in preventive actions.

In Ceilândia, Federal District, patients, relatives and staff of the CAPS AD III (Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Alcohol and Drugs) staged a protest on March 24 to denounce severe staff shortages. The unit, serving roughly 400,000 residents, reported a rise in attendances from 5,256 in early 2024 to 9,837 in the same period of 2026. Only two psychiatrists work 20 hours weekly, and one is currently on medical leave. Demonstrators demanded expanded hours and hiring, with one worker stating: “Today we only have two doctors who work 20 hours weekly, and the government says there is no money.” The protests underscore growing concerns over mental‑health services for alcohol‑related issues in Brazil.