As over 60,000 Leaving Cert students prepare to find out their results this morning, the HSE is reminding students to plan ahead for "safe celebrations."
The HSE is also advising parents to talk with their children about personal safety and alcohol and drug use ahead of exam celebrations. Dr Bobby Smyth, HSE Adolescent Addiction Psychiatrist, has warned young people to pace themselves if out drinking.
He said: "Whether going to a party, pub or club, be aware to pace yourself. A single cocktail, for example, can contain up to 3 standard drinks.
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He said: "This takes a full 3 hours for your body to break down, so it’s easy to see how we can overdo it quite quickly. Taking water breaks between drinks is a big help, and eating before and during a day/night out is also crucial. If you’re starting to feel loss of control, it’s time to stop drinking alcohol."
Dr Smyth also urged students to "look after your friends" when out celebrating. "Don’t let someone go off on their own if they’re drunk or high, in case of an accident, or getting into an unsafe situation. Try to stay in groups of at least three, and make sure you check where your friends are if someone seems to be missing.”
Meanwhile, parents are being asked to encourage their children to seek help if they are worried about a friend or themselves when out celebrating their exam results. Dr Smyth added: "Encourage your son/daughter to seek help from a trustworthy adult nearby if they are worried about a friend, or indeed about themselves. If someone is unconscious or behaving very strangely, e.g. overheating, panicking, or having an epileptic-type seizure, it is time to call an ambulance.”
AskAboutAlcohol.ie provides supports for parents and young people including advice, facts and resources to help stay safe and be smart around alcohol. These include information about Alcohol and Health and tips for parents when communicating with young people.
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