ABC Campaign

ABC Campaign - Behaviour

Promote safety and respect in our community
ABC - campaign

Alcohol is a depressant and can affect your thoughts and behaviour. You may feel more relaxed and confident after a drink. You can also experience negative feelings such as anger or depression.

For further information on the short and long term impacts of drinking too much alcohol please see: Alcohol and mental health

There are a number of factors that can potentially increase your personal risk from drinking alcohol or from drinking at particular times. This could include the possible interaction of alcohol with any medications you are currently taking, whether you have any other physical or mental health problems that could be made worse by drinking alcohol.

There are a number of safe alcohol behaviours which you can consider implementing this season.

These include:

  • Staying hydrated
  • Never drinking and driving
  • Eating before drinking alcohol
  • Downsizing your alcoholic drinks
  • Trying low or alcohol-free alternatives
  • Planning your event out to include how you will get home.
  • Avoid bulk buying alcohol in large amounts to reduce the temptation 
  • Drink for taste rather than effect – quality not quantity
  • Plan how many drinks you’ll have

Useful weblinks:

Guest blog: Making nights out more supportive and inclusive.

Stephanie Bain, Team Leader at Ability Shetland, shares how the most inclusive nights out happen when people feel they can be themselves — unmasked, respected, and believed.

Nights out are meant to be fun, but they don’t feel the same for everyone — especially when alcohol or drugs are involved. Creating safer, more inclusive social spaces is about harm reduction, consent, respect, and looking out for one another.  One group of people who may find nights out a challenge or who require more understanding are neurodivergent people.

  • 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, OCD, Tourettes etc)
  • Neurodiverse people enjoy socialising but may face barriers in nightlife spaces.
  • Alcohol and drugs can interact differently with neurodivergent brains, which can sometimes intensify challenges they may face.

Neurodiversity isn’t a deficit — it’s a different way of experiencing the world. Many neurodivergent people experience heightened sensitivity to noise, lights, crowds, or social pressure, and may find unpredictable environments overwhelming. What feels exciting for some can be stressful or even painful for others.

Some neurodivergent people may use alcohol or drugs to cope with social anxiety or sensory overload, a process sometimes called “masking.” Others may use substances to calm their thoughts or feel more able to engage socially. However, neurodivergent people may be more sensitive to substances, at higher risk from unsafe mixing (such as ADHD medication and alcohol), and may experience challenges in regulating their emotions and in understanding and giving consent.

Supportive nights out start with clarity and predictability. Share plans in advance, including who’s going, where you’re going, and exit options. Choose venues with quieter spaces, offer a buddy system, and make it clear that participation is optional. Never pressure someone to drink or use substances, and encourage hydration, rest, and safe transport.

If someone seems withdrawn, anxious, or overwhelmed, don’t assume irresponsibility. What looks like someone being “too drunk” may actually be sensory or emotional overload. Approach with empathy, not judgment. Use calm language, give space, listen, and offer a way into a quieter or safer environment.

Respect boundaries. Believe people when they say they’re overwhelmed, support early exits without guilt or shame, and avoid labelling anyone as “boring” or “killing the vibe.”

The most inclusive nights out happen when people feel they can be themselves — unmasked, respected, and believed.  By being mindful of sensory needs, respecting personal space, and offering care without judgment, we can make nights out safer, calmer, and more welcoming for everyone.

For further information and support:

______________________________

Guest blog: How to be a responsible host this Christmas

Kathleen Anderson, NHS Shetland Health Improvement Practitioner, shares some practical tips to make sure everyone has a night to remember - for all the right reasons.

Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and gathering with friends and family. But too much alcohol can quickly take the sparkle out of the season. 

1.  Respect Everyone’s Choices

Not everyone wants to drink alcohol - and that’s okay. People choose not to drink for many different reasons, from health to personal preference. Avoid pressuring guests to drink alcohol or “just have the one”. Remember, the goal is to enjoy each other’s company, not the contents of a glass.

2.  Offer Plenty of Non‑Alcoholic Options

Stock up on alcohol‑free or low‑alcohol drinks. Why not serve a warming mulled apple juice or a festive mocktail? Keeping the kettle on for tea and coffee is always a good idea too. Hydration matters - whether guests are drinking alcohol or not.

3.  Serve Food and Snacks

Food slows down the absorption of alcohol and helps prevent drinking on an empty stomach. Snacking will slow down people’s drinking speed too.  So offer food or plenty of snacks to keep everyone topped up.

4.  Watch Your Measures

Glasses come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s easy to pour more than you think. Use smaller glasses or measure spirits to keep servings moderate and top up with plenty of mixers and ice.

5.  Pace Yourself

As the host, you set the tone, so don’t drink too much either. Drinking moderately means you’ll enjoy the evening more and be ready to handle anything that comes up.

Remember: Being a Great Host isn’t About Alcohol

It’s about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. A little thought goes a long way toward making your celebration memorable for all the right reasons.