Alcohol awareness

Alcohol is the leading risk factor for preventable death in 15 to 49-year olds in the UK. Excess alcohol consumption is also contributing significantly to the RN weight management challenge.

Be Responsible with Alcohol

Reducing your drinking doesn’t have to be an entire life change - unless you want it to be. By arming yourself with positive strategies you can gain big wins by taking it just one step at a time.

Think about what triggers you to drink and do what you can to stay away from those triggers, perhaps by taking up a new sport, activity or other hobby.

When you do enjoy alcohol, ensure you stay within the the low risk drinking guidelines and ensure you have drink-free days through the week.

These are all just some of the small steps towards big results that you can take, while your NHS always offers excellent help and support.

silhouette of person drinking alcohol direct from bottle with empty bottles in foreground

Reducing alcohol use - the long and the short of it

Cutting back on alcohol can have positive effects, often within just a few days

  • Feeling less tired
  • Higher energy levels
  • Effective weight management
  • Healthier looking skin
  • Wealthier looking bank balance

Stay aware with Drinkaware

The RN is aligned to the National Drinkaware campaign which provides guidance on the benefits of cutting down alcohol on your physical and mental health.

The campaign also offers help and support for those wishing to cut alcohol out of their lives

Drinkaware is also invaluable to friends and families, providing advice to help you recognise the signs and effects of alcohol misuse on yourself, loved ones and those around you.

drinkaware track your week promo

Help and support

Drinkaware

An independent charity working to reduce alcohol misuse and harm in the UK by helping people make better choices about drinking.

Drinkaware website

Drinkline

Drinkline is the national alcohol helpline if you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking. Call this FREE helpline in complete confidence from 09:00  to 20:00 weekdays and 11:00 to 16:00 at weekends.

0300 123 1110

Samaritans

Samaritans works with the Ministry of Defence and other charities to support serving personnel in the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families. Visit their website or use their free 24-hour helpline providing a safe place to talk about anything that is bothering you.

116 123

Combat Stress

The UK’s leading mental health charity for all serving military personnel and veterans, and to families and friends that may have concerns. Visit their website or use their free 24-hour helpline offering confidential advice and support for stress, anxiety, and depression.

0800 323 4444

Mind

Providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Visit their website or use Mind’s Infoline provides an information and signposting service. Open 09:00 – 18:00, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays).

 

0300 123 3393

Togetherall

A safe anonymous online community providing you with mental health support and advice for coping with the stresses of everyday life. Visit their website or use their free 24-hour online service where you can talk to people, who feel like you; whilst guided by trained professionals.

[email protected]

Every Mind Matters

Looking after your mental health. Offering expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing.

Visit Every Mind Matters website

NHS Better Health

Whether you want to lose weight, get active or quit smoking, Better Health offers lots of free tools and support to make healthier choices.

Visit the NHS website

Explore the other Big Four

Weight Management

Smoking Reduction

Mental Fitness