5 Tips for being a responsible drinker

WITH alcoholism and substance abuse gripping children as young as 13 years old, Sanca Zululand urges responsible drinking this Alcohol Awareness Month.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, research shows that people who begin drinking before age 15 are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder later in life.

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With this in mind, Sanca Zululand offers these practical tips for responsible drinking:

1. Know your limits: Pace yourself—have one drink per hour with water or a soft drink between alcoholic beverages. If you feel drunk, stop drinking.
2. Don’t mix your drinks: Stick to one type of alcohol, and don’t leave drinks unattended or accept opened bottles.
3. Don’t drink and drive: If you plan to drink, don’t drive. Arrange transport beforehand. Alcohol slows reaction times, making driving dangerous.
4. Avoid combining alcohol and other substances: Be cautious of mixing alcohol with both prescription and recreational drugs.
5. Use common sense: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and leave unsafe situations.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, reach out: visit Sanca Zululand at 12 Jenner Road, Empangeni, Mon–Thurs 8am–4pm, Fri 8am–3pm, or call them on 035 7723290/01.

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