Alcohol, drink a little less, enjoy life a lot more

In Australia, as in most other countries, alcohol is widely used and enjoyed.

The recent “alcohol summit” convened by the NSW State Government has focused attention on what is probably the commonest of all recreational drugs.

Alcoholic drinks are very much part of the social scene – in hotels and restaurants, in pubs and cafes, and in recent years wine particularly has become a regular accompaniment to meals at home. In fact, in moderation – just a couple of drinks a day – alcohol has been shown to have real health benefits.

Nevertheless, alcohol has the potential to cause considerable harm. Perhaps because alcohol consumption is so common, excessive consumption is often tolerated or completely ignored.

There are justifiable concerns that alcohol abuse is becoming part of the teenage culture; a behaviour pattern perhaps encouraged by advertising targeting the young.

Studies have shown that about 90% of Australians over the age of 14 have drunk alcohol at some time and about 50% drink alcohol every day.

Pharmacies around Australia providing the Pharmaceutical Society’s Self Care health information now have a “fact card” titled Alcohol.

It indicates why moderation in alcohol consumption is so important and how you can avoid the serious problems of overuse.

While most people drink within the Alcohol Guidelines may people occasionally drink at harmful levels, and a small number of people regularly drink at levels which will almost certainly cause harm.

Alcohol has a depressant effect which can help promote sleep; however, not restful sleep. Usually it’s sleep that changes to wakefulness and insomnia. Rebound anxiety and stress can occur leading to further drinking and dependence.

Drinking regularly at harmful levels can also cause memory loss, headache, mood and personality changes and ultimately permanent brain damage.

The guidelines for safe drinking are described on the Self Care fact card. They vary for men and women and according to your age and weight; but all of us should have at least one or two alcohol-free days each week.

Remember even small amounts of alcohol can interfere with the action of some medicines – both prescription and non-prescription medicines – as well as herbal preparations and illicit drugs. And of course driving and other skills can suffer with just a few drinks.

If you have a drinking problem, you can become and stay a safe drinker. Change your drinking pattern. Alternate alcoholic with non-alcoholic drinks and eat when you drink to minimise intoxication. Sip, don’t gulp or skull your drinks. Change your routine. Go to a movie with a friend rather than going to the pub. Consider joining a support group.

There are lots of benefits to be gained by drinking less. You’ll have more energy, improved mood, sleep better and save money. For more information ask for the Alcohol Fact Card at your local Pharmacy.