Tips for cutting down
Tips for cutting down
Cutting back on alcohol will make you look and feel better. These positive effects can happen very quickly and over the long-term you’ll also be reducing your risk of serious illnesses such as cancer, depression
and addiction.
If you regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, try these simple tips to help you cut down.
TAKE A BREAK
Have 2-3 days off drinking each week.
HYDRATE
Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, juice, even a mocktail!
MAKE A PLAN
Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.
SHARE YOUR GOAL
If you let your friends and family know you're cutting down and it's important to you, you could get support from them.
ONE DAY AT A TIME
Cut back a little each day. That way, every day you do is a success.
MAKE A SWAP
You can cut down by swapping strong beers or wines for ones with a lower strength (ABV%).
DO SOMETHING ELSE
During those times when you might usually drink, try doing something else - take up a hobby, begin an exercise program, spend more time with your family.
PRACTICE SAYING NO
Not everyone drinks alcohol, and it’s fine to say no. Say it quickly and firmly - don't give yourself time to change your mind.
PACE YOURSELF
Enjoy each drink slowly, and avoid rounds - remember that you don’t have to join in every time someone else decides to drink.
Want to know how risky your drinking is?
Alcohol can have a big impact on your health - take the test to see how your drinking measures up.
The service is free and open to all Brent residents aged 18 or over, as well as their families and carers.
