Eat, drink, and be merry!
Of course this time of year is associated with eating, drinking and being merry, but when you’re enjoying yourself, it’s also worth remembering not to overdo it.
If you are drinking, don’t forget to eat, and drink plenty of water, as alcohol is also a dehydrator! A proper meal sets you up for a night out and, as well as avoiding embarrassing mishaps by not getting drunk so quickly, you will be able to enjoy a few drinks with friends, without the hangover later. And remember: two to three units a day is considered the safe amount for a woman to drink, three to four for a man. Leeds University Students’ Union has some more useful tips on this.
“Don’t give your loved one an unwanted gift”
If you do get a bit carried away, don’t forget about safe sex. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the increase, and discovering you are infected with chlamydia, gonorrhoea or herpes is not a good way to start the New Year. Neither is an unwanted pregnancy.
Adam Wilkinson, London Operations Manager for Terrence Higgins Trust says: “Over the holidays we know that many young people will do a lot more than kiss under the mistletoe. However, one in ten under 25s has chlamydia and risks passing it on through unprotected sex.
“We’re determined to get this rate down, and want to make sure people know that – where good sexual health is concerned - going for regular check-ups is just as important as using condoms.” You can get more information on this from your local GUM clinic.
Let’s be frank
You may unexpectedly encounter drugs during the party season, you may take them regularly, or be intending to take something – either way it’s important to be aware of the facts. Illegal drugs are exactly that, illegal, and can be damaging both to you, society and the environment. If you do take any drugs make sure know their effects and how to look after yourself. There are many different kinds of drugs, and their effects can be surprising or unpredictable. Find out as much as you can. Frank is a good place to start.
Keep an eye out
It is also important to be aware of everything you consume. Don’t leave your drink unattended and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Spiking really does occur. The most common form of drink spiking is actually with extra alcohol. This can still be distressing and dangerous, and is the most common spiking involved in “date rape”. When you’re out, and on your way home, try to avoid allowing yourself to become separated from friends, and always keep an eye on your mates.
Heading home
As well as sticking with your friends when making your way home, consider taking a taxi – but make sure it is a licensed one. Carry a local taxi number with you. There are plenty of licensed cab firms to use. In London, for example, Cabwise can give you taxi numbers wherever you are. Simply text “HOME” to 60835.
Neighbourhood watch
Finally, if you live with friends or other students and everyone is going to be away over the holiday period, it’s worth taking precautions to avoid a break in. Lock up securely, get valuable items out of sight and, if you can, tell a neighbour that the house will be empty, so they can keep an eye. If possible, use timer switches on lights, to give the impression that someone is in. Or, ask a friend of neighbour to pop round once or twice to check everything is OK.