The Prevention and Service Support Team is currently running a ‘12 Days of a Safe Christmas’ campaign on its Facebook page.
A useful and informative post shared as part of the campaign has been their festive drinking tips poster – featured in this article.
Alcohol is a festive favourite at many holiday celebrations. Whether you’re raising a glass to toast with family 
or enjoying a seasonal cocktail 
, it’s important to stay mindful and enjoy responsibly to ensure your holidays are safe and fun.
Enjoying Alcohol Responsibly 
While a drink or two can help set the mood for celebrations, overindulgence can lead to risky behaviour, health problems, and missed memories. Here’s how to enjoy alcohol without overdoing it.
Tips to keep drinking in check this festive period:
Remember Your Limits!
Before the holiday party 
or gathering, decide how many drinks you’ll have. Stick to it! Remembering the guidelines around alcohol units. 
Eat Before and During Drinking
Having a full stomach 
slows the absorption of alcohol, reducing its intoxicating effects. Make sure to enjoy some food before and while you’re drinking.
Be Mindful of the Holiday Cocktails
Seasonal drinks like eggnog 
& mulled wine can be deceptively strong. Be mindful of their alcohol content and remember your limits to avoid overindulgence.
Avoid Peer Pressure
It’s easy to get caught up in the “one more drink” mentality 
, especially at social gatherings. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to say “no” 
or “I’m good for now.” Enjoy the company, not just the drinks! 
Signs You’ve Had Enough
You’re starting to feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncoordinated. 
You’re talking louder, feeling overconfident, or making risky decisions. 
Your judgment is getting clouded, or you’re feeling too emotional. 
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to stop drinking and switch to water 
.
Enjoy the Holidays Safely 
The holidays are about connecting with loved ones 
, enjoying good food 
, and creating memories. Alcohol can be a part of the celebration, but it’s important to enjoy it in moderation to avoid risks like accidents 
, hangovers 
, and strained relationships 
.
Here’s to a joyful, safe, and responsible holiday season! 
Give the team a follow for lots of tips on how to stay safe around drugs and alcohol over the festive period, as well as useful contact numbers, health and wellbeing advice and much more.
Information is also available via the Alcohol and Drugs app, where you’ll find links to local services and support, current drug warning alerts, emergency contacts, events in your area (including free training) and self-help advice.
Download the ‘NHS Ayrshire & Arran’ app from your Apple or Android app store then search for ‘alcohol and drugs’.