Ayrshire team backs alcohol awareness

Oct 3 2008 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

MAKING small changes to your drinking can save your long-term health.

That’s the message from Ayrshire health chiefs backing Scotland’s second alcohol awareness week which runs from October 5 to 11.

Drinkers are being challenged to make positive steps and even keep a diary of how much they consume.

Dr Maggie Watts, chair of Ayrshire and Arran Alcohol Drug and Action Team, said: “I am delighted that once again ADAT has the opportunity to support this important awareness campaign.

"This year the campaign concentrates on making positive choices about your drink and your intake. We hope that National Alcohol Awareness Week will give people a better understanding of alcohol.

“You can make positive choices when drinking alcohol. For example, drinking a soft drink or water in between alcoholic drinks will help to keep yourself feeling good.

“It also reduces the chances of a hangover. We recommend that you have a meal before you begin drinking as this helps absorb alcohol. We want people to be able to enjoy alcohol sensibly and safely.”

NHS Ayrshire and Arran will be holding a series of alcohol awareness events around Ayrshire.

To find out more about Alcohol Awareness Week, visit www.alcoholawarenessweek.com.

If you are worried about your or someone else’s drinking, please contact Ayrshire Council on Alcohol (ACA) on 01292 281238. All calls are confidential.