Managing our drinking is one of the most important things that all of us can do to look after our mental and physical wellbeing. While some of us will find that cutting down without support is possible, others will need more help. NHS Grampian is committed to offering guidance and early assistance to those faced with an alcohol related problem.

 

Are you drinking too much?

Cutting back on the amount you drink can have a positive effect on your overall well-being leading to improved sleep, more energy, weight loss and more money in your pocket.

Sobering Thought- This webpage provides information and online tools to help people make better choices about their drinking: 

• Discover how much you spend on alcohol 
• Discover how many calories you are drinking 
• Discover if you are drinking more than you think 
• Top Tips on how to drink responsibly 
• Local Support Services 

 

'Thinking of reducing your alcohol?'

 

Tips to reduce consumption of Alcohol

 

Know your strengths

• Knowing the strength of your drinks is essential. Use unit guidance or look on the label - many brands state their unit content as well as their percentage strength.

 

Know your drinking pattern

• Drinking is such a part of life it can be hard to figure out exactly how much we consume. Keep a drinking diary and note down what, how much and when you take a tipple.

 

Watch your measures

• Drinks poured at home, at parties and in many foreign bars are often larger than standard UK pub measures. If you drink at home, consider investing in a set of measures.
• Avoid "topping up" so you can keep track.

 

Change your drink

• Not all brands are the same strength - switch to a lower alcohol alternative.
• Make spirits into long drinks by adding mixers.
• Add soda water to wine or drink shandy instead of beer.

 

Change the scene

• Instead of pubs or clubs, try meeting mates at the cinema, the five-a-side pitches, bowling alley, gym or theatre.

 

Slow down - Pace yourself

• Sip, don't gulp! If you're really thirsty, take a soft drink or water.
• Use soft drink "spacers" when you're out, take a soft drink between alcoholic ones and drink less booze during the evening.

 

Know how to refuse a drink

• Decide for yourself when and how much you want to drink.
• Some people can be offended if you turn down a drink - that's their problem.

 

Avoid drinking in rounds

• If you've had enough, insist on a soft drink.
• If it's your round, get yourself a glass of something alcohol-free.

 

Eat before and while you drink

• Food makes the body absorb alcohol more slowly and so limits how quickly it gets into the bloodstream.

 

Drink to a budget

• Take a limited amount of cash out with you - no more than you need to stay sober, in control and get a taxi home.

 

Talk through problems and worries

• Stress and worries can influence how much you drink. Talking can be a good first step to resolving problems with alcohol. To speak to someone in confidence call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 (6pm - 2am daily).

 

You may need help cutting back if:

 

• you often feel the need to have a drink
• you get into trouble because of your drinking
• other people warn you about how much you're drinking
• you think your drinking is causing you problems

Employees may approach OHS if they are concerned about their, or someone elses, consumption of alcohol. All consultations will be treated in the strictest of confidence. 

To find out more about NHS Grampian Alcohol Policy please click here or speak to your manager.

There are also a range of support services across Grampian that provides free and confidential support and advice for individuals, families and friends who are affected by alcohol use. Watch our video to find out more:

 

 

UK Alcohol Unit Guidance

For more information on UK alcohol unit guidance please visit the link below:
www.drinkaware.co.uk/alcohol-facts/alcoholic-drinks-units/latest-uk-alcohol-unit-guidance