Moderation
Most people who drink alcohol think of themselves as
"moderate" or "social drinkers". But drinking involves risks
and, for some, it can lead to problems.
What is problem drinking?
It's when drinking begins to interfere with
your life.
For example, you may:
- be repeatedly late for work
- get lower grades at school
- have arguments with family or friends
- develop health concerns
- be charged with impaired driving
If you are experiencing any of these problems, or if you're
concerned about your drinking, you should think about
quitting or cutting do wn.
Remember, drinking should never interfere with:
- your health
- your job
- your studies
- your relationships
- your safety
- the safety of others
Six Steps to moderate drinking
For many people, moderate drinking can be part of a healthy
lifestyle. To reduce your risk of problems, keep the
following rules in mind:
1. Keep track
It's a good idea to monitor your drinking. Keep track every
day.
- How much are you drinking?
- How do you avoid drinking too much?
2. Pace yourself
Moderate drinking means alternative moderate and no drinking
days into your regular routine.
If you choose to drink:
- Measure your drinks.
- Dilute them with water, ice, soft
drinks, or juice.
- Sip, don't gulp.
- Alternate your drinks with water, soft
drinks, or juice.
- Eat a snack with your drinks.
- Wait a while between each drink.
3. Spend time on other things
Instead of drinking, spend some
time on other things you enjoy.
- Go for a walk.
- See a movie.
- Read a book.
- Listen to music.
- Take up a hobby.
- Join a club.
4. Stay alert
There may be times when you feel
pressure to drink. Learn to:
- Plan ahead and set personal limits.
- Resist temptation. (Tell yourself, "I
don't want to ruin my record," "I can have fun without drinking," or "I
don't
want to wake up with a hang-over.")
- Refuse drinks without feeling guilty.
(Remember, it's okay to say "no thanks".)
- Leave if you are having trouble saying
"no".
5. Don't use alcohol to
escape
Alcohol can't solve your
problems. Don't use alcohol to feel better or to deal with difficult
situations. Instead of
drinking, try to:
- Talk about your feelings
- Voice your opinion
- Show affection
- Assert yourself
6. Never drink and drive
Even small amounts of alcohol
can affect your ability to drive or operate heavy equipment safely. If
you drink,
don't drive! Plan ahead, take a bus or taxi home or get a lift with a
friend who hasn't been drinking.
Other times to say "no"
For some people, even moderate
alcohol use can be dangerous. If you have medical or psychiatric
problems, or take certain prescription or non-prescription drugs, ask you
doctor or therapist for advice. Women who are pregnant or planning a
pregnancy should avoid drinking.
Need help?
If you're having trouble dealing
with your drinking, don't be shy. Talk to a friend or ask a
professional for help.
Thanks to the Center For The
Addiction For Mental Health for allowing ANBL to re-print this information.
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