Alcohol Awareness Week

7th to 13th July 2025

We will be asking brief screening questions to patients during this week to identify anyone at risk from alcohol

Know the Facts

What is alcohol?

Alcohol is found in drinks like beer, wine, and spirits. It is a depressant, meaning it slows down your brain and body’s responses.

Short-term risks of drinking too much

• Poor sleep and tiredness
• Accidents and injuries
• Reduced judgement leading to risky behaviours
• Hangovers (headache, nausea, dehydration)
• Memory loss or blackouts

Long-term risks of heavy drinking

• Liver damage (including cirrhosis)
• High blood pressure and heart disease
• Increased risk of cancers (mouth, throat, breast)
• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
• Dependency and addiction

How much is too much?

The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend:

• No more than 14 units per week for both men and women
• Spread your drinking over 3 or more days if you drink regularly
• Aim for several drink-free days each week

Example: 14 units = 6 pints of average-strength beer or 6 medium (175ml) glasses of wine.

Tips to cut down

• Set a weekly limit and keep track
• Choose lower-strength drink
• Have smaller servings
• Alternate with soft drinks or water
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach

Need support to reduce your drinking?

Talk to your GP or nurse for advice.

You can also visit the Drinkaware website for tools and resources to help you cut down safely.

Join us for Alcohol Awareness Week

This week is a great time to reflect on your drinking habits and consider small changes for better health and wellbeing.

Speak to reception or your healthcare team if you have concerns about alcohol use. We’re here to help without judgement.

Published: Jul 8, 2025