Alcohol is enjoyed by a large percentage of the
population, however many people are unaware of the potential harm
that this drug can cause.
Alcohol and Units
The standard way in which alcohol
is measured is using the unit system.
Many people are unclear what a
unit actually is. Here are some examples of drinks you might find
in a pub or restaurant and the equivalent number of units:
- One pint of normal strength lager (3 - 3.5% ABV)
is equivalent to 2 units
- One 275ml bottle of alcopop (5.5% ABV) is 1.5
units
- a 175ml glass of 12% ABV wine is 2 units
- a single measure of spirits (40% ABV) is 1
unit
Bear in mind however that many
drinks poured at home will be more generous and so contain more
units of alcohol.
Sensible drinking guidelines for adults:
- Three to four units a day for men
- Two to three units a day for women
Men who regularly drink four or
more units and women who regularly drink three or more units are
putting their health at risk.
Sources of help and information
If you would
like more information on alcohol or
need to speak to someone in confidence about your own or someone
else's alcohol consumption please make contact with the following
organisations:
Down Your Drink is the
revolutionary online program for people who are worried about their
drinking. It is funded by the Department of Health and is free to
use.
Drinkline
Telephone 0800 917 8282
Mon - Fri: 9am - 11 pm
Sat - Sun: 6pm - 11 pm
The Drinkline helpline offers
factual information about safe drinking, advice, and practical
suggestions about overcoming any related
problems. The helpline is confidential and
available to anyone concerned about alcohol misuse, including to
people with alcohol problems, their families, friends and
carers.