SMOKING
Vaping vs. Smoking
E-cigarettes don’t contain tobacco, so they are a good way for current smokers to continue getting their nicotine fix, but at a reduced risk. Although there hasn’t been enough research for experts to guarantee their safety, vaping is generally regarded as a safer alternative to regular smoking and there is strong evidence in favour of e-cigarettes as an aid to stopping smoking entirely.
DRUGS
2.3 million 16 to 59-year-olds admitted using cannabis in the past year.
Cannabis and Mental Health
According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, there is a strong link between cannabis use and mental health problems in later life—particularly in individuals who are genetically more vulnerable to addiction. Research has shows that regular use of cannabis doubles the risk of psychotic episodes and developing long term schizophrenia.
ALCOHOL
There were 8,416 alcohol-related deaths registered in the UK in 2013
Did You Know?
The recommended daily alcohol allowance for men is no more than three to four units, and two to three units for women. To put this into context, there are approximately 10 units of alcohol in one 750ml bottle of wine.
Dr Hilary’s Top Tip
If you are drinking in rounds with a group of people, you may end up drinking more than you planned because you are trying to keep up with your peers. If you choose not to join in with the rest of the group and go at your own pace, you may drink significantly less.
Am I Alcohol Dependant?
The NHS estimates that 9 percent of men and 4 percent of women show signs of alcohol dependence. Here are some of the warning signs:
- Finding it hard to stop drinking once you start—you can’t stop after just one drink
- Feeling the need to have a drink in the morning to ‘get started’
- Regularly getting into trouble when you are out drinking
- Experiencing blackout periods that you can’t remember
- You’ve tried to quit drinking, but only managed to last a few days at most
If you have experienced any of the above, discuss your concerns with your GP.
SOURCES: Office for National Statistics, Royal College of Psychiatrists, NHS UK.
