As many across Northern Ireland prepare for the Twelfth of July celebrations, a leading charity is encouraging people to be aware of their alcohol units.
Whether drinking at home, in the bar or at a bonfire, ASCERT is reminding everyone that drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can pose a risk to your own health and the health and safety of those around you.
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.
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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 to these findings by launching a RETHINK YOUR DRINK campaign and asking individuals to consider their relationship with alcohol.
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.
According to ASCERT, 14 units per week is the maximum recommended amount of alcohol to be consumed by both men and women - 14 units is equivalent to six pints of average strength beer. A large glass of 12% wine is three units.
It's recommended that alcohol units are consumed over the space of a week and not used up within one day.
ASCERT’s Chief Executive Gary McMichael said of the charity’s campaign: “Our vision is to have a society protected from the harm resulting from drug and alcohol misuse which has become more prevalent in recent years.
“Our health services are at capacity and most people only seek help when things have hit crisis point which is why we are encouraging people to take some time to reflect on their own alcohol intake and consider if it is time for a change and support them towards a positive and healthy change, reducing the amount they drink.”
Gary continued “Our website has self help tools that people can use in the privacy of their own home to check if their habits have become unhealthy and there are tips and advice on how people can drink less.
“If you are experiencing issues with alcohol or substance use and require support, then please get in touch. Our services are free of charge and completely confidential.”
ASCERT urges people to take some time to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and consider if it might be “time for a change”.
Some questions to consider are:
- How many alcohol free days do you have each week?
- Do you know many units you are consuming and has this increased recently?
- Are your family or friends concerned about your drinking?
If you are worried about your own alcohol use, or if you are affected by a family member's alcohol or substance misuse and need support, please get in touch.
ASCERT offers a range of free and confidential services for young people, adults and families throughout Northern Ireland. Help is available in person or over the phone.
ASCERT also has a self help section on their website with free downloadable resources. More information can be found at https://www.ascert.biz/rethink-your-drink/.
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