Responsibility starts with me. This holiday season I’m focusing on Mindfulness, Joyfulness, Safety, and Togetherness. I am also focusing on being a positive role model for my family, friends, and children. My goal going into the new year is to be a responsible advocate regarding alcohol consumption, underage drinking, and behaviors surrounding drinking.
As you know, I have been on the Responsibility.Org parenting team for the last couple of years because I am so passionate about their mission and the work they do to educate parents and keep kids safe from underage drinking and drunk driving.
So today on the blog I am sharing myths about alcohol consumption that I hope to dispel.
Myth: Alcohol is a good way to cope with stress.
Truth: After a long and difficult day, alcohol may be the last coping mechanism you should use. Alcohol can increase anxiety and depression and can make a bad mood worse than if you choose to go on a walk outside, paint, listen to music, or even journal.
Myth: I only had a few…I’m ok to drive.
Truth: The more you understand how alcohol affects your blood-alcohol concentration on an individual level, the more you a more responsible consumer. And since alcohol affects everyone differently, even if you just have one or two drinks, always arrange to have a responsible driver and make arrangements for a safe ride home.
Myth: It’s ok to do a free pour if I’m drinking at home.
Truth: Whether you are hosting a party at home or you are at a party at someone else’s home, always use a standard pour.* The more you learn how to host and attend parties responsibly, the safer you and your family and friends will be. If you have a self serve drinking station, you can’t gauge how much alcohol is really going into your glass! *A standard pour means 1.5 ounces of a distilled spirt, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.
Myth: People care what’s in my cup…they would know if I’m not drinking.
Truth: The truth is, most people won’t know what’s in your cup…or even care what’s in your cup. You can still have fun and be sober. That being said, just carry a cup with water, juice, or soda in it during a party and I guarantee it won’t be a big deal. If you are confronted, just say you can’t drink because you have to get up early or are the designated driver and most people won’t pressure you (this works for teens too). I’d they do pressure you, I suggest looking for some better friends!
Myth: It’s ok if I give my teen a few sips..
Truth: Talk responsibly to your kids about alcohol. Let them know that first and foremost, if they are underage, then it’s not for them! Discuss ways to say NO to peer pressure, how to make healthy choices, and what to do if they are in an uncomfortable situation. As adults, we should never sell, serve, or supply alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age. It’s Illegal, it’s unsafe, and it’s irresponsible.
Need more resources? Head to Responsibility.Org for more information as well as conversation starters to have with your kids as well as a virtual bar to determine how alcohol and food affect your BAC!
I am a Responsibility.org ambassador this year and I am compensated to write the post but all of my opinions are my own.
#TeamResponsibility #HolidayStartsWithMe
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