Many people believe small amounts are healthy. The WHO states there is no level of drinking that is completely safe for health.
Risk rises with the amount and frequency of drinking.
Key concepts
- A 'standard drink' contains a fixed amount of pure alcohol, whatever the beverage
- A large peg or a strong beer can be two or more standard drinks
- Binge drinking is harmful even if it is only on weekends
Symptoms and signs
- Needing a drink to relax or sleep
- Drinking more than planned
- Missing work or family duties after drinking
Causes
- Social pressure and celebrations
- Using alcohol for stress or sleep
- Tolerance — needing more for the same effect
Risk factors
- Family history of alcohol problems
- Depression or anxiety
- Starting young
Evidence-based management
- Take the AUDIT self-check to see your risk level
- Set alcohol-free days and track drinks
- Brief counselling is effective for risky drinking
- Medical treatment for dependence
When to seek professional help
- AUDIT score in the higher-risk range
- Morning drinking or shaking when you stop
- Drinking during pregnancy — seek advice
Frequently asked questions
Is red wine good for the heart?
Current evidence does not support drinking for heart health; the risks outweigh any possible benefit.
I only drink on weekends. Is that okay?
It depends on the amount. Drinking a lot in one sitting carries risks such as accidents, violence and heart rhythm problems.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- Alcohol — fact sheet. World Health Organization.
- Alcohol-use disorders: diagnosis, assessment and management of harmful drinking and alcohol dependence (CG115). NICE, UK, 2011.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
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