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What teens should know about alcohol |
It is hard for teenagers to get accurate information on alcohol issues. Here are some key things they should know.
What is an alcohol overdose?
 Binge drinking can make you drunk. If you keep drinking you can poison the brain (alcohol overdose). This can cause your breathing or heart to stop. If you become unconscious you can choke on your own vomit.
The worst response to an alcohol overdose is to put your friend to bed to ‘sleep it off’. Your friend may be dead in the morning.
How do you look after a drunk friend?
• Stick with them and never leave them.
• Monitor their condition for deterioration.
• Reassure them & keep them comfortable.
• Keep them hydrated with small amounts of water frequently.
• If in doubt, call for help. Ring 000 and ask for the ambulance.
Will I get into trouble if I call for help?
You won’t get into trouble for calling an ambulance, even if things get better. Police do not attend ambulance callouts for alcohol unless a crime has taken place. In any case, your friend’s life may be at stake.
How can you help someone sober up?
Remedies such as strong coffee, bread, large amounts of water or a cold shower do not work and may cause more harm than good. The only thing which helps is time.
What can you do for a hangover?
There are many remedies for a hangover, but none work! These strategies can help:
• Drink less. Prevention is the best cure!
• Eat a good meal before you go out.
• Have non-alcoholic drinks as well.
• Drink 2 glasses of water before bed.
Source: Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs by Paul Dillon. www.allenandunwin.com.
More info: www.drinkwise.com.auDisclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Summer 2009 Edition | Page 4
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