Most people are able to enjoy having a drink quite sensibly. For some, however, it can cause problems. Getting drunk can make you more vulnerable and because alcohol lowers your inhibitions and it can make you act out of character.

Below are some guidelines you should follow to avoid such problems:

  • Don’t mix your drinks

  • Don’t drink on an empty stomach

  • Drink slowly and space your drinks

  • Try to avoid binge drinking

  • Drink water or soft drinks between alcoholic ones

  • NEVER drink and drive

  • Drink plenty of water before going to bed

  • Do not drink if you are on medication. It may have unpleasant side effects

  • If a friend becomes unconscious through drinking too much, dial 999 for and stay with them until help arrives

Drinkaware at www.drinkaware.co.uk provides information on the effects of alcohol on your life. The unit calculator can help you work out how much alcohol you drank last night and you can set up a drinks diary to track your drinking over time.   

Alcohol misuse

Services for people who have serious alcohol problems are provided through health services, the County Council and voluntary organisations. Locally based community alcohol teams, specialist health services staff and social workers provide medical, health and care advice. The County Council provides information about alcohol addiction, support and counselling via its website at www.hertsdirect.org/comdirectory/comvol/heal2y/sgheal3y/heaalcohol4y/

Hertfordshire Alcohol Problem Advisory Service (HAPAS) offers help and advice with alcohol related problems. They can be contacted on 01727 827677.

Turning Point Hertsreach St Albans provides advice, information and support for sufferers, their friends and families. Turning Point can be contacted at the following address:

Turning Point Hertsreach St Albans
Vickers House
222 London Road
St Albans
Hertfordshire
AL1 1PN

Telephone: 01727 893 344
Fax: 01727 842 919
Email: hertsreachstalbans@turning-point.co.uk
Web: www.turning-point.co.uk

Drinkline 0800 917 8282 - this national helpline offers the fllowing services to callers:

  • Information and self help materials

  • Help to callers who are worried about their own drinking

  • Support to the familly and friends of people who are drinking

  • Advice to callers on where to go for more help

 

Date of last review: 21 June 2010