A new campaign is encouraging people in Northern Ireland to rethink their drinking habits as figures show an increase in the number of adults consuming alcohol.
The campaign is taking place to mark Northern Ireland Alcohol Awareness Week 2023, which runs from 19th – 25th June.
The aim is to help raise awareness of alcohol consumption, encouraging people to stay healthy and reduce the harm caused by drinking too much, too frequently.
Read more: NI man opens up on 'rock bottom' of alcoholism
The Health Survey (NI) 2020/2021 report published by the Department of Health recorded a 4% increase in adults aged 18 and over drinking alcohol – representing 81% of the overall population, with a quarter of men reporting that they drink on three or more days each week.
Meanwhile 22% of all adult drinkers reported they have been drinking more since the Covid-19 pandemic.
ASCERT, a Northern Ireland charity and leading provider of services addressing drugs and alcohol related issues, recognised this as a growing issue.
The charity responded by launching a campaign – RETHINK YOUR DRINK – encouraging individuals to consider if it is time for a change with their drinking habits.
ASCERT Chief Executive Gary McMichael said “When it comes to alcohol, around 80% of the population drink and a significant number of those drink at levels which are problematic for them.
“If the answers to these questions are resonating with you personally, I urge you to take some time and consider if it is time for a change in your relationship with alcohol.
“The first step you can take is to visit the RETHINK YOUR DRINK area of our website. We have developed self-help digital resources including an Alcohol MOT Test and you can visit our virtual bar to check the alcohol units in your favourite tipple.
“These tools are there so that people can help themselves in order to achieve a positive change in their alcohol use”
Gary continued “The South Eastern and Western Connections teams will be out and about in local communities delivering awareness events throughout Northern Ireland Awareness Week encouraging the community to assess their drinking habits and make more informed choices.”
Some questions to consider if you are worried you may be drinking too much, too often:
- Has a friend or family member expressed concern about your drinking habits?
- How many alcohol free days do you have each week?
- Do you know how many units of alcohol you are regularly consuming or what the guideline limits are?
More information on these events can be found at https://drugsandalcoholni.info/project/niaaw/ and RETHINK YOUR DRINK self help tools are available at https://www.ascert.biz/rethink-your-drink/.
If you would like to find out more about ASCERT’s services on alcohol and substance misuse, go to www.ascert.biz or call 0800 254 5123.
READ NEXT:
Belfast man changes life around after hitting rock bottom with addiction
Alcoholic credits Newry's Cuan Mhuire with helping turn his life around
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
