This week we’re supporting Alcohol Awareness Week, encouraging open conversations about alcohol use and health. Drinking can be part of life for many, but it’s important to understand the impacts on your body and mind and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
NHS guidance on alcohol and health
The NHS recommends that to keep the risk of alcohol related harm as low as possible, both men and women should aim to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over 3 or more days. There’s no completely “safe” level of drinking, so even small reductions can benefit health.
What does this mean?
- 14 units = 6 medium glasses of wine or 6 pints of regular beer.
- Even just a few drink free days each week can help improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Why it matters?
Long term or heavy drinking can increase your risk of:
- Liver disease and high blood pressure.
- Heart disease and stroke.
- Several types of cancer.
- Sleep disruption and mood problems.
- Accidents or injuries if alcohol is involved.
Support
📞 Drinkline, a free, confidential helpline for people who are concerned about their drinking, or someone else’s.
Call 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am–8pm, weekends 11am–4pm)
For more information visit Alcohol Awareness Week | Alcohol Change UK
