Alcohol misuse

Alcohol misuse means drinking at excessive and unsafe levels. It is the biggest risk factor for death, ill-health and disability among 15-49 year-olds in the UK, and the fifth biggest risk factor across all ages.

In Waltham Forest, there were 370 deaths attributable to alcohol in the borough between 2007 and 2017

Alcohol consumption is measured in units. A unit of alcohol is 10ml of pure alcohol, which is about:

• Half a pint of normal-strength lager
• A single measure (25ml) of spirits
• 85ml of wine (A small glass of wine is 125ml and contains about 1.5 units of alcohol)

Current guidance recommends that people should keep track of their intake, and not drink more than recommended amounts:

• Men and women are advised not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis
• Spread your drinking over three or more days and take a break from alcohol two days a week if you want to cut down, try to have several drink-free days each week
• Pregnant women should avoid drinking altogether

Visit Drinkcoach Waltham Forest to find out how risky your drinking is and to track and cut down your drinking and download a free app for your smartphone visit https://drinkcoach.org.uk

If you would like specialist information or support about drinking habits, or you or a family member have a family member affected by drugs or alcohol contact CGL Waltham Forest on 0203 826 9600.