Keeping a balance

Have nights off from drinking. This means someone knows they can manage without alcohol and aren’t using it to cope.

Talk to friends about alternatives ways of having fun that don’t involve alcohol. Use the money on the cinema or bowling. Taking up a hobby, a sport or going for walks/ a run can really help if someone’s getting into the habit of always having a drink.

Have a 48 hour break from alcohol if it’s been a big night out to give the liver and body a chance to recover. See Hangover page, Do I drink too much? and Alcohol and its effects.

If you need to cut down on your drinking, seek help by confiding in a parent, health practitioner or doctor. See Help and advice. See also our advice on festivals and travel.

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