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1 - drinking once in a while Excessive drinking is associated with physical problems, psychological disorders, violence (including sexual assaults) and accidents. FACT: Women are at a higher risk of developing alcohol related problems at lower consumption levels. The death rate among women alcoholics is higher than in men because women have a higher risk of suicide, cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis. For pregnant women, the consequences may be devastating. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is thought to be the third highest cause of congenital learning difficulties in the United Kingdom. FAS is also associated with a host of physical and neurological problems such as facial deformities and organ malformation. Two or three drinks per day during pregnancy can cause premature birth, lower birth weight and intellectual and neurological retardation. DID YOU KNOW: That according to latest research, young women between 18 and 24 are the heaviest drinkers and are most likely to drink above the safe drinking levels. The weekly limit for women is currently 14 units. Q: How much is a unit of alcohol? A: A unit of alcohol is: - a single measure of spirits - half pint of beer - a small glass of wine There may be deeper underlying problems that lead to problem drinking. It is known that depression and heavy drinking often go hand in hand. Many women drink to "forget their woes". While this may relieve the symptoms of depression in the short term, it may worsen them in the long term. Women who are depressed may not pay as much attention to their heavy drinking or to the possible consequences. Do you have a problem? Do you need help? Following are some contacts that could help you. USEFUL LINKS Alcohol
Concern Drinkline Alcoholics Anonymous |
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