Alcohol is the most widely used recreational drug in Australia. People drink to relax, celebrate and socialise.
No matter how old you are and regardless of whether you drink alcohol or not, it's important to be aware of how alcohol affects people and learn ways to minimise the risks associated with drinking.
If you choose to drink alcohol, it's important to know how to use it in a safe and responsible manner.
What are the issues?
Used in moderation, alcohol can have some relaxing and healthy benefits. However, it's quite the opposite when it comes to binge drinking, drink driving, embarrassing or risky behaviour, hangovers, drink-spiking or alcohol addiction.
Standard drinks
A "standard drink" is a drink that contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. However, alcohol has different effects on different people so you should only use the standard drinks table as a guide for what is a safe amount to have.
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) (new window) will give you lots of info on standard drinks and how much is safe for you.
Binge drinking
Heavy drinking or drinking deliberately to get drunk is called binge drinking. There are lots of dangers that go along with binge drinking that you should be aware of, check out our page on binge drinking to find out what they are.
Drink driving
We don't have to preach the evils of drinking and driving here because we're sure you're aware of the risks and the stupidity involved. But it's still quite frightening how many young people choose to drink and then drive.
Have a look at the Better Health Channel (new window) for lots of info on the dangers of drink driving.
Drink spiking
Drink spiking is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into your drink without you knowing. If you've had your drink spiked you can lose control of your body and mind very quickly and can be put in a position where you may be sexually assaulted, robbed or harmed.
Check out the Better Health Channel's page on drink spiking (new window) to find out how to avoid it and where to go if it happens to someone you know.
Alcohol abuse
Sometimes the way people use alcohol has a negative effect on their physical health, mental health, relationships with other people and safety. Their ability to do what they need to do for school, uni or work can also be affected.
If you know someone who you think needs help to reduce or stop their drinking check out the Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS) (new window) for information.
The social and economic cost of alcohol
Alcohol misuse is a significant social and economic problem in Australia. Some think illicit drugs are a bigger problem but that's because there is more media attention on drug use, especially heroin, marijuana and ecstasy.
In reality, alcohol is ranked second to tobacco as the most preventable cause of health-related problems and death. Alcohol costs our Australian community about $7.5 billion every year!
Legal stuff
Obtaining alcohol is a legal issue if you're under 18 and even being in a nightclub, pub, bar or other venue where they serve alcohol could see you in trouble with the law.
And if you're over 18, buying alcohol for your friends who are under 18 is illegal. If you're caught out, you could be up for a very hefty fine.
If you are stopped by police and asked to undergo a breath test, you must do so. If you don't, you can be charged, fined and disqualified from driving for at least two years.
For more information about the law and drink-driving, take a look at Victoria Legal Aid
Links
Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS)
A youth focussed organisation that run detox programs and provide support for young people with substance abuse issues.
Victorian Drug Services
Find out the facts on standard drinks, interaction of alcohol with other drugs and tips to reduce risky drinking.
Federal Department of Health and Ageing - Alcohol
Straightforward tips and ideas on subjects such as having a party, drinking to regret, body check, legal issues and fun night or nightmare?
Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous is a not-for-profit organisation that seeks to help alcoholics to reduce and quit their drinking.
Better Health Channel - Drink Spiking
Things you should know about drink spiking and where to turn for help.
