Are you drinking too much?

MORE than 40 per cent of drinkers in Warrington are concerned about how much alcohol their friends and family consume, new research reveals today.
The YouGov research, published today by the Government’s Know Your Limits campaign, also found that – across the country – women are more likely to worry than men about others drinking too much (46% vs 36%).
Younger people actually worry more than older people: 45% of 18-34 year olds are concerned, compared with only 36% of those over 55.
One in four (26%) of UK adults who drink alcohol regularly consume more than the NHS recommended daily limit of 2-3 units for women and 3-4 units for men.
The same study found that two-thirds (66%) of drinkers say they drink simply to socialise with friends, whilst one in five
(20%) say they actually rely on alcohol to get through social situations.
Brenda Fullard, Regional Public Health Specialist said: “The region’s Big Drink Debate showed that in the North West more than one million people are drinking at harmful or hazardous levels.
“So it’s not surprising that so many people are concerned about how a friend or family member drinks. And it’s interesting to note that young people are as concerned as the older generation.
“Many of us enjoy a drink, especially at Christmas and New Year. But on the downside alcohol can cause tension and family arguments. We also know that there is a strong link between alcohol and domestic violence, as well as increased visits to accident and emergency because people have injured themselves or others when drunk.
“The New Year is a great time to take stock. We are hoping that people of all ages who regularly exceed safe limits will make it their New Year resolution to cut back on their alcohol consumption.”
To see how your units add up, visit www.nhs.uk/units for an easy-to-use drinks calculator. Anyone concerned about their drinking can call Drinkline on 0800 876 6778 or visit their GP.