THE FACTS ABOUT ALCOHOL...

ALCOHOL is widely used and enjoyed in Scotland and is associated with celebration and hospitality. Across the world, alcohol has been an important part of people’s cultures for thousands of years. It must be remembered though that alcohol is basically a mind-altering substance, just like other drugs.

In Northern Europe, there is a tradition of binge-drinking with an “all-or-nothing” approach to alcohol. Statistics show that this is becoming an increasing problem in today’s society, costing Scotland over £1 billion every year. There is no commonly-accepted definition for binge-drinking, but taking more than 8 units for men and 6 units for women on one occasion is regarded as a harmful pattern of drinking. To many this may not seem excessive, but the bottom line is that frequently drinking beyond healthy limits damages your health.

The recommended limits for adults used to be described in total units drunk in a week. Now it is more helpful for people to look at what they drink on a daily basis. The recommended maximum daily limits for men are 3 – 4 units and 2 – 3 units for women. It is also advised that people try not to drink at all for a couple of days each week.

What's in a Drink?

• Small glass of wine (125 ml)
  1.5 units (12% ABV)                                                   
• Half pint of ordinary strength lager
  1 unit (3.5% - 5% ABV)
• 25ml pub measure of spirit
  1 unit (40% ABV)
• 330 ml bottle of alcopops
  1.7 units (5% ABV)

Misuse of alcohol can affect many areas of people’s lives, including their health, wellbeing, work, behaviour and relationships. For a small minority of people, alcohol becomes a big part of their lives and they become dependant on it. They may look for help to overcome and cope with this.

TIPS ON CUTTING DOWN

  Keep a record - If your drinking is gradually increasing, but you're finding it hard to gauge by how much use a Drinks Diary to work out what's passing your lips in an average week. 

Try a new tipple -  try swapping your favourite tipple for a soft drink a few nights each week or try one of our alcohol free cocktail recipes.

Get hydrated - Try alternating your drinks so that you have water or juice in between alcohol.

Habit forming - if you associate a certain activity, such as watching TV, with having a drink, listen to your favourite album instead, or cook yourself a nicer meal with the money saved from the wine.

Try something new - If you normally reach for a pint after a days work, try going for a walk, yoga class.

Get money wise - Tot up how much money you have spent on alcohol in the previous week or month. Work out how much you could save by cutting back and choose a gift for yourself as an incentive.

Don't drink on an empty stomach - Wait until you've stared eating your evening meal before drinking your wine or beer, or have a few nibbles beforehand to slow down the effects of alcohol on your body.

Slow down - Recognise when you're drinking too quickly. Sometimes, you might just be. Sometimes you may just be thirsty rather than really wanting an alcoholic drink.

A range of information leaflets as detailed below can be obtained by contacting the HADP Team on (01463) 704603  or email maureen.doig@nhs.net

Sensible Drinking

Recognising Problem Drinking

Women and Alcohol

Alcohol and Behavour

Alcohol and Stress

Alcohol and Older People

Alcohol and Healthy Living

What's in a Drink?

Alcohol, What Every Parent should know guide

Drink Diaries