7 drinking tips

Not all young people drink alcohol, but the reality is that many people do. Although we may be aware of the dangers of drinking, many of us still choose to drink too much. It’s easy to say “never again” when you you are hungover but it can be much more difficult by the following weekend. If you do choose to to drink then there a ways that you can try and stay safe while doing so. 

7 tips when drinking alcohol 

Eat before you start drinking

Eating a large meal before you drink is important as it slows down the rate that alcohol is absorbed into your body. The reason you may be drinking is because you want to get drunk but that doesn’t mean you need to get drunk really fast. Pacing yourself means that you will be able to enjoy your night for longer and eating a meal will help you to achieve this. 

Drink slowly

Drinking slowly can help you to understand better the effects that the alcohol is having on your body. If you drink three drinks quickly one after another you may become more drunk than you planned to without realising. By drinking slowly you can enjoy each drink and save money. Binge drinking (six or more drinks in one session) is a  problem in Ireland and it is dangerous for your health. If you feel yourself getting drunk then slow down or stop until you sober up again. It means that at the end of the night you’ve less chance of being too drunk and sick

Drink water

When drinking alcohol it is important to also drink water. Drinking water can help to keep you hydrated and slow down the impact that alcohol will have on you. Before you go to bed, drink as much water as you can. It will stop you getting too dehydrated and that’s what causes the hangover headache.

Keep an eye on how much you’re drinking

Calculate how many units you may have had by using an online drink calculator.

Stay safe

Don’t accept drinks from strangers and don’t steal drinks from other tables, as you risk having your drink spiked. If you feel too drunk stay with friends and let them know how you are feeling. Avoid leaving bars with people you don’t know. If you become separated from your friends in a club, speak to a member of staff or security to see if they can help you find them again.  

Getting home

Make sure you’ve got a safe way to get home – take a taxi or a nitelink, or call a parent and avoid going home alone.

Keep an eye on friends. If any of them are really drunk, make sure they get home safely.

• Check out our Hello Sunday Morning campaign which encourages people to examine their relationship with alcohol, and consider taking a break from alcohol

Remember it is against the law for a young person under 18 to buy alcohol or drink alcohol in a public place. Read more about young people and alcohol on Alcohol Action Ireland’s website.