Drinking is associated with celebrations and events throughout the world. Some of these events consist of social gatherings, concerts, festivals, sporting events, and so on. Young or old, society is exposed to alcohol consumption daily. In the United States, more than 178,000 people die from excessive alcohol use each year.(CDC) It’s important to remember that although an occasional drink is normal, it’s crucial to drink responsibly. How can one do just that?

1. Eating, especially carbohydrates, before you start drinking will slow down alcohol absorption. When drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, it passes through your small intestines and becomes quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Light to moderate drinking on an empty stomach might not be much concern but drinking substantial amounts can be extremely dangerous.
2. Avoid benders. If you are unaware, a “bender” is a slang term referring to an extended period of continued alcohol use. Taking a break between evenings to give yourself a chance to rest does the body and mind good! Binge drinking can increase the risk of alcohol poisoning, chronic health problems later in life, or even death.
3. Start counting how many drinks you may be consuming. Mindless behavior can often lead to excess. As an example, drivers who never check their speedometer tend to speed without realizing it.
4. Do not cave into peer pressure, your friends will be fine. Most people talk themselves up and they are not drinking as much as they say they are. Drink at your own pace and just say no.
5. Consuming water between drinks will keep you hydrated and slow your drinking rate. Additionally, drink a glass of water before bed after a night out. Alcohol is a diuretic; therefore, it can contribute to dehydration. Drinking water helps replenish lost fluids and alleviates alcohol consumption symptoms.
6. Know your limits. If you have already been drinking for a few years, you usually know how much you should and should not be consuming. Before the night starts, set a drinking limit and stick to it.
7. Avoid drinking with stimulants or medications. An occasional energy drink, beer, or your prescribed medication is fine on its own. However, combining any of these together is not safe. Mixing alcohol with these substances could lead to cardiovascular issues, brain or organ damage, respiratory issues, nausea and vomiting, headaches, fainting, loss of coordination, and even death.
8. Know what you are drinking. This is important in two ways; being aware of the alcohol content you are consuming and being aware of what is in your drink IE. spiking. Never leave your drink unattended, and do not accept any drinks from strangers. Ask for help if needed.
9. Putting your drink down in between sips allows you to consume it at a slower pace. This way you are less likely to consume too much too quickly. Drinking at a slower pace puts less of a strain on your body since the liver can only process a limited amount of alcohol at a time.

Lastly, in cases where alcohol poisoning does occur, what should be done? Symptoms of alcohol poisoning; confusion, hypothermia, loss of coordination, slow or abnormal breathing, stupor, slurred speech, and even passing out. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, call 911 immediately. If alcohol poisoning is not treated quickly, it can lead to a coma, brain damage, and even death.

1. Try to keep the person sitting upright and awake to avoid passing out. Make sure they drink tiny amounts of water and stay warm.
2. If someone has passed out from alcohol poisoning, make sure they are laying on their side and watch their breathing.
3. Sleeping it off is not safe. The amount of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream can continue to rise 30-40 minutes after their last drink and worsen their symptoms.
4. What not to do if you have alcohol poisoning; cold showers, drinking coffee, or consuming more alcohol.

Consuming alcohol carelessly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol consumption, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) or SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357). Drinking safely is the best way to drink!