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Safer alcohol consumption

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Be alcohol-aware

As you embark on your college journey, you'll encounter numerous exciting experiences and opportunities to create new social connections. Alcohol often plays a role in these social scenes, offering a way to unwind and enjoy yourself. However, it's crucial to stay aware of your rights and the limitations that come with its use, and also to be aware any amount of alcohol may harm your health. You can read about recommended daily and weekly alcohol limits on Health Canada's low-risk alcohol drinking guidelines page.

 

The most common reasons for drinking
are to be social (66%) and to celebrate (59%).

More than 53% of drinkers
report feeling pressured to drink more alcohol than they wanted to.

One drink is:
a 12 oz beer or cider (5% alcohol)
a 5 oz glass of wine (12% alcohol)
a 1.5 oz shot of spirits (40% alcohol)

 

 

Tips for safer alcohol consumption

 

Know your limits

It's important to know your limits when it comes to alcohol consumption. Start by drinking slowly and spacing out your drinks. Drink water or non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks. This can help prevent you from getting too intoxicated too quickly.

 

Eat before and during drinking

Drinking on an empty stomach can lead to rapid intoxication and can be dangerous. Make sure you eat a balanced meal before drinking and snack on food while you drink to help slow down the absorption of alcohol into your system.

 

Pace yourself

It's important to pace yourself when drinking alcohol. Don't try to keep up with others who may be drinking faster or more than you. Listen to your body and stop drinking when you feel like you've had enough.

 

Avoid binge drinking

Binge drinking is a dangerous pattern of alcohol consumption that can lead to a range of negative consequences, including alcohol poisoning, accidents, and injury. Set limits for yourself and stick to them. Don't feel pressured to drink more than you're comfortable with.

 

Plan ahead

Plan ahead before you start drinking. Make sure you have a way to get home safely, whether it's by public transportation, a taxi, or with a designated driver. Never drink and drive.

When to reach out for help

If you are concerned about your dependence, over or excessive use of alcohol, please reach out to these services.

UFV resources

Wellness peers

Wellness peers are students like you, trained to listen and give 1-on-1 support at the Wellness Centre.
Counselling services

Access confidential, no-fee counsellors through UFV Counselling Services.
Student Support Centre

Student support workers can guide you to the right UFV service or program for you.

Community resources

Resources for healthier alcohol use

From the Canadian Mental Health Association
Treatment, Support and Recovery

From the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
Mental Health and Substance Use

Resources from HealthLink BC
Getting Help for Yourself

Get support from the BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services

Please note that this website does not constitute, and should not be interpreted as, medical advice, diagnosis, or opinion. This website is for informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be accurate, complete, reliable, or error-free. This website is not intended as a tool for self-diagnosis, is not a recommendation of a specific treatment plan or healthcare provider, and is not a substitute for proper medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek a consultation with a qualified medical or health professional.