Alcohol is the most widely used legal drug in American society. Most adults use it responsibly and without negative consequences. For some, their use level may be hazardous to themselves and others.

The abuse of alcohol increases the risk for a number of health related and other medical, behavioral, and social problems including: accidents, half of all traffic deaths, domestic violence, fires, family problems, workplace performance problems, legal and financial difficulties, inappropriate risk taking, and emotional problems.

Management Strategies

Use of the following strategies, applied consistently, can reduce one's drinking level, prevent problems, and lower risk for serious consequences:

Make a plan if you are going to places where alcohol is available and there may be pressure to drink. You can resist pressure by requesting non-alcoholic beverages.

As an upper limit, do not drink more than 12 drinks per week, 4 drinks (men) or 3 drinks (women) on any day. One drink per hour sets the pace for moderate drinking.

Do not drink if you are pregnant, taking medication, operating equipment, before or during physical or sports activities, or if you are planning on driving.

Don't ride with someone who has been drinking. Never have "one for the road" and always "buckle-up"!

Count your drinks. A standard drink contains a fixed amount of alcohol: 1-1/2 oz. of liquor, 5 oz. of wine or 12 oz. of beer.

Don't drink to cope with problems or negative feelings, difficult situations, or to medicate yourself.

Don't drink on an empty stomach. Consume foods to buffer the alcohol. Don't eat salty foods that stimulate thirst, try low-calorie, high moisture-content foods such as raw vegetables, or cheeses and meats which digest slowly and slow alcohol absorption.

If you think you or someone you know may have an alcohol problem, seek confidential advice from your physician, employee assistance program, a member of the clergy, or a local alcohol treatment center.