By far the most commonly used and abused drug in Ireland .
What is Alcohol?
It is a depressant drug that slows down function of the body both mental and physical. Alcohol exaggerates mood; if you were feeling down, aggressive or hyper before, this will probably only be magnified once you start drinking.
- Drink impairs your judgement which increases the likelihood of unprotected sex, homicidal tendencies and doing things you might later regret. Drinking alcohol can lead to addiction
Warning Signs
- Drinking before class in the morning
- Drinking to cope with or escape from pressures
- Drink-driving under the influence of alcohol
- Aggressive behaviour as a result of alcohol
- Health problems, injuries, accidents
- Blackouts or memory loss a result of drinking
How do you know if you are drinking too much?
- Drinking in order to fit in with peers
- Drinking alone
- Drinking to cope with anger, sadness, frustration and everyday life
- Binge drinking
What to do in an Emergency
- If a friend becomes very drunk it is vital that you stay with them
- Keep them warm
- Don't let them have any more alcohol
- Get them home safely. Don not just bundle them into a taxi on their own
- If they pass out, put them in a recovery position (i.e. on their side) and get someone to call for an ambulance
Alcohol needn't cause a problem
Consider following rules
- Drink on a belly full of hearty food (Think pasta, potatoes, rice and bread)
- Don't rush it
- Don't mix it, make up your mind, stick with one kind
- Think water. Drink water throughout the night
- Avoid drinking games
What's the big fuss? Not everyone drinks; you can still go out with your mates and have a good time. Not everyone enjoys pubs and drinking. You might want to do other things. See what Dublin has to offer. Go to www.dublin.ie for a general overview and check out the free event guide. Also consider the different clubs and societies in D.C.U.
For any student who thinks Alcohol may be a problem for them you can call to your friendly DCU Health Centre and see any of our staff in strictest confidence. There is also a AA meeting once a week here in DCU.
Alternatively call AA – Alcoholics Anonymous
109 South Circular Road
Dublin 8
Telephone: 01–4538998
Al–Anon
Capel Street
Dublin 1
Telephone: 01–8732669
E-Mail: al@indigo.ie
