Scotland's drinking culture promotes going out to get drunk
(binge drinking) rather than drinking socially. Drinking like this
is more harmful to people and society - 
particularly in terms of
poor health and violent crimes. Further information can be found at
Brook.
Being drunk affects your judgement and might mean you do things
you might not usually do; and that may mean that you are more
likely to have unsafe sex. Read our section on keeping
safe information before you go out.
Tips for keeping an eye on your drinking
- Try and remember to drink to be social - not to binge and get
drunk. Keep in mind that you don't have to keep up round for round;
you can drink at your own pace.
- Eat something! Food slows down the absorption of alcohol in
your stomach so eating before or during a night out is a good
idea.
- Drink water or non-alcoholic drinks. Alcohol dehydrates
you so remember to drink water during and after a night out - your
head will thank you for it, as well as your complexion. Having
water or soft drinks between alcoholic drinks is good because it
will slow down your drinking pace.
How much is okay?
- Alcohol is measured in units. Take a look at the number of Alcohol Units are in the most
popular drinks.
- It is recommended that men aged 18years and above can safely
drink up to 3 - 4 units per day or 21 units per week
- The limit for women is 2 -3 units per day or 14units per
week.
- THERE IS NO RECOMMENDED SAFE LIMIT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
UNDER 18.
- It is good for your health to have at least 2
alcohol-free days every week.
- Check out how many units you are drinking at the
Alcolator
Heavy drinking can damage organs like your brain and liver - not
to mention your relationships, bank balance, job or studies. If you
find yourself often drinking alone or think you might have a
problem controlling how much you drink, you should talk to someone.
For confidential information, advice or support about alcohol
here's where to go:
- The
Place young peoples' clinic at the Sandyford has an
alcohol and drug worker who can help. You can call Tricia
0141 232 8447 who will offer support if you are worried
about your own drinking or someone close to you who is drinking too
much.
- Drinkline Scotland is available 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week. Trained operators can offer advice and support
on any alcohol concerns, and put you in touch with local services.
Phone: 0800 7 314 314
- Teenage Health Freak gives information on
alcohol and lots of other health issues at http://www.teenagehealthfreak.org
- Drinking and You: Information about drinking
and health at http://www.drinkingandyou.com/site/uk/moder.htm