Don’t let alcohol ruin your Christmas

Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement
Photograph of a man holding a bottle of alcohol in front of Christmas tree, with a sad expression on his face.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is advising people to plan ahead and take steps to reduce the risk of drink ruining Christmas celebrations.

Stephanie Hanlon, Joint Regional Lead for Substance Use at the PHA, said: “All too often we see families affected by their loved ones over-indulging in alcohol, and that can be a particular problem at this time of year when drink can end up becoming a disproportionate part of festive celebrations, often with negative or unintended consequences.

“Many people might use alcohol to relax, but it can have both immediate and long-term impacts on our lives.

“In the short term, the undesirable effects of drinking too much can include nausea, vomiting and hangovers, as well as increasing the risk of falls or accidents that can result in injury. It can also affect our judgement, leading us to do things we wouldn’t otherwise do and that we might regret later. This can include unplanned sexual activity, relationship difficulties and getting into violent situations. 

“Longer term, drinking heavily can also cause damage to the liver, heart, brain and stomach. “It is important that people understand their drinking behaviour, explore their relationship with alcohol, and take steps to reduce their consumption if they do find that they are drinking too much.

“This time of year should be fun and we want everyone to enjoy themselves safely, so don’t put yourself or anyone around you at risk – drink in moderation, don’t add any drugs to the mix, and look out for each other so you can enjoy the Christmas festivities.

“Small changes can make a big difference, so plan ahead and think about your relationship with alcohol.” 

 

Alcohol advice this festive party season:

  1. Look after yourself and know your limits.
  2. Eat before or while drinking, but avoid salty snacks which make you thirsty.
  3. Don't mix alcohol with any other drugs.
  4. Have several alcohol-free days each week.
  5. After each alcoholic drink, take a non-alcoholic one, like a zero alcohol alternative, a soft drink or water.
  6. Take frequent breaks from drinking.
  7. Avoid drinking in rounds or having a kitty.

  8. If a friend or family member drinks too much, don't leave them or let them wander off.

     

Further advice and information is contained in the ‘Focus on Alcohol’ booklet at www.pha.site/FocusOnAlcohol

Stephanie continued: “It’s important that we enjoy ourselves safely. It’s easy to forget that alcohol itself is a powerful drug and mixing any drugs, including prescription medications and alcohol, can be unpredictable and unsafe.

“It is of course safest to not use any drugs at all, but if you choose to use alcohol and other drugs it’s vital that you keep yourself and those around you as safe as possible.”

If you want to find out more visit www.DrugsAndAlcoholNI.info which has info to help us understand the effects of alcohol and drugs.