We drink alcohol in one, some or all of its many forms. A short list includes beer, champagne, liquor, mixed drinks and wine. In its natural state, alcohol is a clear liquid.

In the immediate and short term, alcohol decreases inhibitions and relaxes us. Sooner than later it causes dehydration and depression. Chronic heavy alcohol use can be destructive to our livers especially if we are dealing with Hepatitis C or HIV medications.

Here are some tips that may come in handy when looking to manage the way you drink and lessen the risks related to drinking:

•Have dinner before going out drinking.

•Try not to “catch up” to your friends that have been drinking for a while by taking shots and downing drinks, which can lead to blackouts. Try having a couple drinks while you are getting ready to go out, that way you have a little buzz going when you get there.

•Don’t mix beer/wine/spirits.

•Water is free; stay hydrated. Alternate alcohol with a non-alcoholic beverage.

•Limit your spending money, as a means to limit your intake.  Only take a certain amount of cash out with you and leave your debit card at home.

•Maintain pacing by being in charge of the rounds.

•Beer bust or 2-4-1? Give one away to a friend in need.

•If you’re drunk, politely excuse yourself and throw up.  Throwing up is your body’s natural way of detoxing.

•Pace your alcohol intake with bitters, soda and lemon. It also helps with digestion.

•Start a new tradition with non alcoholic shots.

•Lessen the hangover by drinking sports drinks that contain electrolytes.

For more information on Alcohol:

https://dancesafe.org/alcohol/

Concerned about your alcohol use? Check out Cheers Queers!!

A free, non-judgmental service for those looking for assistance/support around slowing down or quitting alcohol use: https://cheersqueers.org/