In Ireland, alcohol is incorporated into many social and public events. The average age of beginning to drink alcohol is 15 years of age according to a recent study. Through various surveys, research and our own experiences we know that people use alcohol for many different purposes, sometimes for work and study-related stress. For some people, their use of alcohol puts themselves and others at risk.
While alcohol is legal its potential for harm is often underestimated. Harmful use of alcohol has been recognised as one of the main risk factors (within the top five) for disease, disability, and death. Drinking alcohol even at moderate levels has been clearly linked to the risk of developing health problems such as alcohol dependence, liver cirrhosis, cancers, injuries, relationship and financial difficulties (WHO 2014).
More detailed and specific information is available at:
Healthy Service Executive
Drug and Alcohol Information and Support
Alcohol Action Ireland
