The first few weeks of term are exciting – new friends, classes, opportunities and nights out. As you navigate your way through your new life as a University student, it’s important to be aware of the tips and tricks available for keeping yourself safe when being social and out on the town.
Make a plan (and a back-up plan) Before you start your night, make a plan to ensure you’ll get home safe. Have your mobile fully charged and a taxi number or the Students’ Union safety bus contact information saved somewhere safe. Think about how much you want to drink, and how much money you want to spend. Try to stick with it!
Eat first Eating a substantial meal before going out can help in many ways. It helps prevent a spike in blood alcohol levels, allowing your body to adjust slowly to the impact of drinking.
Stay hydrated Have a big glass of water before you have your first drink. Consider swapping a drink or two for a non-alcoholic beverage throughout the night.
Slow down Go for smaller sizes – try bottled beer instead of pints, or a small glass of wine instead of a large one. You can also decrease the strength of your drink by choosing ones with lower % ABV. You’ll find this information on the bottle or menu.
Trust your instincts Keep your eye on your drink if you are at a party or bar. Buy your drink yourself, avoid drinking from punch bowls and, if you put your drink down out of your sight, do not continue drinking it.
If you think your drink has been spiked Tell someone you trust entirely, be that a close friend, relative or a member of the police. If you’re alone, get to a safe place and call a trusted contact. If you need urgent help, call 999. The NHS provides a number of guidelines and advice.
Stick with friends It is always a good idea to have a friend, or someone you trust, at your side when you’re on a night out. Make sure to stick together as best you can, and try not to find yourself alone throughout the night. Call a taxi early with a friend when you’re ready to go home.
Feel free to say no Don’t feel pressured to hang out with people who make you uncomfortable, or who want you to drink more than you would like. Saying no allows you to take control over your night.
Remember that not all great nights have to be nights out Spending time with friends during a night in can be just as fun and rewarding. Change up your plans to include a few nights in a month – you’ll save a bit of money and energy in the process!
Enjoy Yourself University is an exciting time which also requires greater personal responsibility. Know your limits and drink within them and you’ll be taking a big step to making your University days (and nights) as enjoyable as possible.
By monitoring your alcohol intake or using a few of these tips on cutting back, you might notice improvements in your mood, sleeping patterns and behaviours. They can also have long-term positive impacts on your physical health such as your heart, weight and immune system.
Click here to download a Drinks Tracker App and other information that you might find useful.
If you are looking for further advice and support around safe drinking and cutting back, you can visit an Enabling Services Drop-in for a chat with an Advisor.
