Alcohol

Most people are able to enjoy having a drink quite sensibly. For some, however, it can cause problems.

Getting drunk can make your more vulnerable. Alcohol can lower your inhibitions and make you act out of character, so you may end up doing something you regret. Heavy and frequent drinking can lead to dependency

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

For more information on sensible drinking go to http://www.dh.gov.uk/PolicyAndGuidance/HealthAndSocialCareTopics/AlcoholMisuse/fs/en

HEALTH PROMOTION HERTFORDSHIRE –
For up to date, authoritative health promotion advice from the Hertfordshire Health Promotion team, check out their website at:-
www.nhsinherts.nhs.uk/hp/health_topics/drugs/drugs.htm

For more information visit www.drugson-line.info

For help and advice with alcohol-related problems call HAPAS (Hertfordshire Alcohol Problem Advisory Service) on 01727 827677

Or visit the following webpage: http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/.

Turning Point Hertsreach St Albans - Provides advice, information and support, structured day programmes, one-to-one keyworking, a counselling service, DTTO/DRR/ATR provision, a friends and family support group, needle exchange and complementary therapies.

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

TEL: 01727 893 344
FAX: 01727 842 919
EMAIL: hertsreachstalbans@turning-point.co.uk
WEB: www.turning-point.co.uk