Even though the weather may seem a bit dull recently, coming into the Summer months, many of us are looking forward to socialising this summer. After a very long and cold winter, many people are itching to get the BBQ out, and start enjoying the longer evenings. The summer time is when most people take a break from work, the kids are off from school and we get to spend more time with our family and friends take part in activities, and have fun. We can all make the most out of this summer by keeping it fun and safe.
39% of Irish adults agree with the statement “Irish drinking culture has changed for the better over the last three years”. To help change Irish drinking culture, it is important to know what binge drinking is. Binge drinking is defined as having 6 or more standard drinks in one sitting. This is equal to having 3 or more pints. As we return to our social lives, let’s think about how much we drink and why.
Socialising does not have to include alcohol. However, there is no denying that alcohol can be seen as a cultural norm in Ireland. Pubs are a common place for us to meet and socialise. But we have shown the desire to break cultural norms by changing how they drink. 63% of Irish adults motivation to drink less is to improve their physical health. 32% of Irish adults motivation to drink less is to improve their mental health. People are becoming more health-conscious, but perhaps do not know how to start making these changes. You can keep it safe and fun this summer by following Drinkaware’s top tips and be the leading force of safe summer socialising in Ireland.
Keep it fun, keep it safe:
Stay out of rounds: It can be easy to lose track of what you are drinking (and spending!) when taking part in rounds. You can use Drinkaware’s free Drinks Calculator to see how much you could save by keeping out of rounds.
Alternate with water: Drink a glass of water after every alcoholic drink. Not only will this keep you hydrated but will help you keep track of how many drinks you have had. Make sure to follow the low-risk weekly alcohol guidelines as set out by the HSE.
Downsize your drink: Instead of ordering a pint, why not order a half-pint or a bottle? Remember, one standard drink is half a pint. This can help you keep track of how many standard drinks you have had.
Swap to alcohol-free: Cutting down or out alcohol doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your favourite tastes. There are more alcohol-free alternatives now than ever before. From lager to wine, there is something for everyone.
You can find even more tips on our Safe Summer Socialising page.
The Summer can be a positive time for so many people but for others it can be really difficult. Parents may struggle with having the kids at home more frequently. Socialising can be difficult for so many of us and we may feel that having a drink may ease the nerves. People may feel pressured into drinking more often as it’s the Summer time. Drinkaware provides public health resources, covering mental health and coping strategies, measuring cups and information and advice on how to cut down/out alcohol. All are available on the website, drinkaware.ie and can be delivered straight to your front door, free of charge. If you are concerned about how your relationship with alcohol, there are supports here for you, you are not alone. Visit our support hub to find out more.