Make this holiday season memorable for all the right reasons, like rocking the best festive Christmas jumper, rather than regretting a wild celebration.
Whether the event is a BBQ with family and friends, an office party or work dinner, alcohol and other drugs are often part of the celebrations. Being mindful of the way you celebrate, setting your own limits and making informed choices means you’re more likely to enjoy the whole festive season, and not just the first invite you receive.
Here are some tips to help you celebrate the year that has been and the year to come:
Have a Plan
Whether its for your health, or simply to feel better in the moment (or tomorrow), deciding to drink less can be a powerful choice, especially in social situations.
Know Your Limits
Listen to your body: if you start feeling sick, or unhappy, it’s probably time to slow down or stop.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after consuming alcohol. Aim for a glass of water between alcoholic drinks to help stay hydrated.
Eat Before and While Drinking
Eating a meal before drinking can slow the absorption of alcohol and reduce its negative effects. Include foods rich in fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to help protect your stomach.
Pace Yourself
Sip your drinks slowly. Take breaks to give your body time to process. If you decide to take other drugs take a half or quarter dose first, wait until you feel its effects and then decide whether you need anymore.
Avoid Mixing
Stick to one type of alcoholic drink throughout the night: Mixing different types of alcohol can make it harder to track how many standard drinks you have consumed.
Try not to mix different types of drugs: Be mindful of your medicines, make sure you know what you’re taking, and remember that alcohol and caffeine are drugs too.
Sleep Well
Make sure you get enough sleep! Sleep helps your body recover, and rest reduces the severity of hangover and comedown symptoms.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Alcohol and other drugs can affect your mental and emotional well-being. If you feel anxious, depressed, or you just need someone to talk to, you can call lifeline on 13 11 66 or the 24 hr drug information hotline on 1800 811 994.
Know the Risks of Overdose
Understand the symptoms of overdose for any substance you use – including alcohol. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else shows signs of an overdose. (Check out our Overdose Wallet Cards for important information on what to do in the event of a suspected overdose.)
Looking for more information? Check out some of the resources on CODE to learn more about alcohol, and how to count your ‘standard drinks’.