Standard Alcoholic Drinks

What is a 'standard' drink?

Look for a label similar to the image below. These will be written on all packaged drinks in Australia.

Some examples of the number of 'standard drinks' for common drinks are below:

Images courtesy of Motor Accident Commission, SA

What is alcohol?

Alcohol is a Central Nervous System (CNS) depressant. It affects virtually every organ in the body, and chronic use can lead to numerous preventable diseases including alcoholism.
Australians are the heaviest drinkers in the English speaking world. We drink to relax, to celebrate, to socialise and to have fun. Alcohol forms a part of many social functions - from family get togethers to parties and work functions. Unfortunately excessive alcohol use is responsible for many physical, mental and emotional problems.

The following guidelines can help you look after yourself, your family and others when alcohol is being used.

Short term effects

• Distorted vision, hearing and co-ordination
• Altered perceptions and emotions
• Impaired judgment
• Bad breath and hangovers

Long term effects

• Loss of appetite
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Skin problems
• Depression
• Sexual impotence
• Weight gain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Arguments with family
• Decreased functioning at work
• Financial difficulties

Signs of a drinking problem
If you feel that someone you know could have a drinking problem, the following situations may help you decide whether or not to seek further assistance:

• Inability to control drinking - regardless of intentions they frequently end up consuming too much
• Using alcohol to escape from problems
• Changing from a reserved person to the ‘life of the party’
• A high tolerance level—they can drink far more alcohol than others
• Suffers ‘blackouts’ when drinking - the person can't remember what happened
• The person sustains injuries from drinking
• Alcohol is/has affected their ability to complete normal activities such as working

When to avoid alcohol?
You should not consume ANY alcohol if you:

• are pregnant
• are operating machinery
• are taking medication
• suffer from a condition such as liver disease

© Wesley Corporate Health (2011) - This article is provided for your information only and does not replace qualified medical advice. The information provided may not apply to every person or all situations. A medical practitioner should be consulted for all treatment and medication.