Enjoy the festive season - keep a lid on your drinking

23 December 2009

Hunter New England Health is urging residents across the Area to celebrate safely and moderate their drinking over the festive holiday period.

Not drinking to excess will help keep you safe and out of harms way, says Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services Staff Specialist Dr Craig Sadler.

“It is a sobering thought to realise that the Christmas and New Year holiday period is also a peak period for alcohol related violence, accidents and injuries,” Dr Sadler said.

Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to one third of all road deaths; half of all domestic, physical and sexual violence; and 80 per cent of night-time assaults.

The cost of social and economic harm caused by excessive drinking is estimated to be more than $15 billion per annum.

“Estimates suggest more than 70 per cent of alcohol in Australia is consumed in such a way that risks physical or mental health problems,” Dr Sadler said.

“Drinking in moderation and taking personal responsibility are still among the best safeguards to ensure a good time is had by all this festive season.”

Here are a few tips to help you celebrate safely and enjoy a Merry Christmas and happy New Year:

• Don’t be afraid to set limits for yourself, and stick to them. Don’t let other people pressure you into drinking more than you want.
• Quench your thirst first. Have a non-alcoholic drink first if you are thirsty.
• Drink slowly. Take sips, not gulps.
• Alternate your drinks – follow each alcoholic drink with a glass or bottle of water, or soft drink, juice or other non-alcoholic alternative
• Drink from a small glass. Some wine glasses can hold several standard drinks.
• Be aware of exactly what you are drinking. “Alcopops” or sweet flavoured pre-mixed drinks can be quite strong, even though they don’t taste like strong alcohol.
• Try a low alcohol/non-alcoholic alternative.
• Eat before and while drinking, but avoid salty snacks, which will make you thirsty.
• Avoid getting into a “round” or a “shout”. They are sure to make you drink faster, and drink more, so that you can keep up with your friends.
• Avoid “top ups”. Drink one drink at a time so that you can keep track of how much you are drinking.
• Stay busy. Don’t just sit and drink. Dancing, playing music or games can take the focus away from drinking.

Contact: Frances Holz

Phone: 4939 2216