To Drink, or Not to Drink

Posted on August 12, 2019

As you know, it’s March and St. Patrick’s Day is coming up. This is well known as a big “drinking holiday.” I thought that it would make sense to talk about drinking alcohol. It seems to me that a lot of people treat alcohol very casually like it’s no big deal. For me, using alcohol is not a casual choice due to the fact I think my family has a genetic tendency towards alcoholism and addictions. I believe that Autism, anxiety, and depression also increases my risk of abusing alcohol. I have personally seen the havoc of drinking too much and long term alcohol abuse. If you’re not careful and you misuse alcohol, it takes away choices by diminishing your ability to think and react.

I like to be the best I can be so I only drink with my friends. I only drink one to two drinks every few months at safe places such as a trusted friend’s house. It is easy to be pressured to drink more than you originally planned to. Make sure if you have been drinking, you have a plan to get home safely. I did ask my doctor if this will affect my anxiety and depression meds. It’s easy to have the effects of alcohol intensify by using over-the-counter and prescription drugs. It is important to make sure you read warning labels and that you talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Make sure to talk to someone you trust ahead of time about how alcohol may affect you and have a plan before you drink. For me, I want to make my own smart choices, but I like having the option to ask for advice. Everyone has to make the decision that’s right for them regarding alcohol use. I hope you have a happy and safe St. Patrick’s Day.

*For more information and resources on using alcohol safely and appropriately visit:

http://abovetheinfluence.com/ 

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/

And remember, if you are over the age of 21 and decide to drink, you should always consult with your physician first to see if there are any harmful interactions with medications you are taking or conditions you may have.