The holiday spirit: Tips for drinking in moderation this season

If you plan to enjoy alcohol during the holidays, here are some ways you can do so in moderation:

• Consider attending some events without drinking alcohol.
• If you’re hosting, be sure that people are made to feel comfortable choosing not to drink. Have tasty non-alcoholic beverages, mocktails, water and snacks available.
• If you choose to drink, be sure to have lots of water and non-alcoholic beverages between drinks and make sure you’re eating.
• Avoid mixing alcohol with cannabis or other drugs, including prescription medication. Mixing substances increases the risk of negative health impacts.
• Before having another drink, pause and reflect why you would like one more drink. One less drink can protect against negative short and long-term consequences.
• When you do consume alcohol, do so mindfully. Take the time to enjoy and savour your drink.
• Always have a designated driver. Make sure that you and others have a safe way home.

The effects of alcohol can last for many hours after you stop drinking—and the health risks are cumulative.

Being mindful of how much you drink has other benefits: you’ll save money, and less alcohol over the holidays means you’ll finish the year healthier and well rested, both physically and mentally.

Related: Checklist for safer celebrating this season

Check this list of standard drinks to see how much alcohol you’re drinking:

One drink is considered:

• Beer, 5% alcohol: 341 ml (12 oz)
• Cider/cooler, 5% alcohol: 341 ml (12 oz)
• Wine, 12% alcohol: 142 ml (5 oz)
• Distilled alcohol (rye, gin, rum, etc.), 40% alcohol: 43 ml (1.5 oz)

In 2023, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction released its guidance on alcohol and health.

Drinking less is better infographic

We now know that even a small amount of alcohol can be damaging to health. Science is evolving, and the recommendations about alcohol use need to change. Research shows that no amount or kind of alcohol is good for your health. It doesn’t matter what kind of alcohol it is—wine, beer, cider or spirits.

Drinking alcohol, even a small amount, is damaging to everyone, regardless of age, sex, gender, ethnicity, tolerance for alcohol or lifestyle. That’s why if you drink, it’s better to drink less. Any reduction in alcohol use has bene­fits—in other words, every drink counts.

Related: Managing health risks and harm in B.C.’s alcohol hot spot

A new year can offer a fresh start and extra motivation, which is why many people make New Year’s resolutions. This can include not drinking at all, or cutting back starting January 1.

Dry January started as a public health initiative in 2012 from Alcohol Change UK. Here is the organization’s top 5 tips for preparing for a dry month.

If a dry January seems like a big goal, consider a ‘drier’ or ‘damp’ January. The Canadian Alcohol Use Disorder Society offers an Almost-Dry January Challenge. Or, you can use January to get ready for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Dry February Challenge.

Related: Alcohol’s steady rise during the pandemic

Many struggle to reduce how much they drink or stop using alcohol. Not being able to do so on your own isn’t because you lack willpower or strength.

If you experience some or all the following related to alcohol:

• Intense cravings
• A compulsion to drink
• Lack of control
• Negative effects on activities and health

You may have a condition called alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is a health condition assessed and diagnosed by a health-care professional. The good news is AUD is entirely treatable, and a full recovery is possible for just about everyone.

Related: My experience with alcohol use disorder treatment

If you’re struggling with your alcohol use, know you’re not alone, and help is available. Talk to a health-care professional today or call 310-MHSU (6478). There may be free or low-cost treatment options in your community or online including:

• Your Guide to Medications for Alcohol Use Treatment: English; Punjabi; Chinese; German 
• Individual or group counselling
• Bed-based treatment services
• Outpatient withdrawal management (detox)
• Pregnancy support
• Cultural and spiritual care

For some people, stopping drinking alcohol without medical support can be life threatening. Call 310-MHSU (6478) if you have any questions or doubts. 

If you’re experiencing feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm, these services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays:

• Interior Health Crisis Line: 1-888-353-CARE (2273)
• KUU-US 24/7 Indigenous Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
• Metis Crisis Line: 1-833-638-4722

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