Alcohol

Let’s be honest, uni is a hotbed for alcohol consumption, and, for the majority of students, is a very pleasant experience. Social drinks with friends in bars and clubs can allow you to have a fun packed night out. BUT with all good things come their limitations. For some, drinking to excess leads to disorientation, lowered inhibitions and not to mention a dreadful hangover the following day.

On the night: Eat before you drink. Don’t Drive! Walk home with friends If you can’t be good, be careful...

What if I don’t want to drink?

There is no reason why those who choose not to drink need to stick together - most students interact freely regardless of the number of units (or not) they imbibe during the week. There is no pressure to drink alcohol, and the vast majority of students will respect the decision of others not to drink. Most students, if they do drink, drink to moderation, and regardless of anyone’s social habits, everyone should find themselves able to participate fully in all events and activities.

It is often assumed that many of the sports clubs are completely alcohol-orientated, but this is not the case. There are a large number of non-drinkers in many teams and so this should never act as a barrier to getting involved. As a member you may feel pressured into drinking, but you can always have a coke or something, so try to stay around.

We do have unlicensed areas, and we hope that this enables more students to use the facility.

Do I have a problem?

This is a question only you can answer. However, if you are at all worried, there are ways you can address your concern. The Counsellors are available to talk to, but if you want to find out some info privately, try calling Alcoholics Anonymous (24 hour helpline 0845 769 7555). If you are struggling and don’t know where to turn the Students’ Union officers can help, and want to. Healthcare professionals are at a much greater risk of suffering from alcohol related problems, and healthcare students are no exception.

Conclusion

Drink if you want, don’t if you don’t. Always be aware of the consequences of your actions and don’t let anything get out of control.

• 1 unit =  1/2 pint of ordinary strength lager
• 1/4 pint of strong beer/lager or cider
• 1 single measure of spirits (28 units in a 75cl bottle)
• 1/3 glass of wine (12%)

• 3-4 units per day for men (including 2 alcohol free days per week)
• 2-3 units per day for women (including 2 alcohol free days per week)

This is often more simply expressed as 21 units weekly for men and 14 for women. However these have been recently revised into daily amounts as it was felt they were being misinterpreted as meaning no alcohol all week, then 21/14 units on a Saturday night. It would be worth trying to remember both though. Long periods of abstinence followed by binge drinking is not considered to be safe.