It's so easy to get carried away during the holiday season. From family parties to friend's houses for sleepovers or meeting up with your cousins at the bar, the access to alcohol is everywhere. It's important to keep in mind that the holiday season can be a rough time for some, so drinking excessively may be a sign of substance abuse or an outlet. If you see someone you know and care for abusing alcohol, be the bigger person and friend and let them know they should slow down and take it easy.
To stay on Santa's nice list this year, here are seven ways to keep yourself from acting a fool at this year's Christmas party.
Never mix, never worry.
Liquor before beer, you're in the clear. Beer before liquor, never sicker. Stick to one liquor all night and you'll be fine.
Stick to the alcohol you know.
If your cousin brings a bottle of liquor from a country you've never heard of, don't be pressured into drinking it. Stick to alcohol you know and are familiar with.
Drink plenty of water.
Drink water before you drink alcohol. Drink water after each beverage. Just keep drinking water to flush out the alcohol. And don't worry about breaking the seal.
Eat a good meal.
The best way to fight any kind of drunkness is by eating a good meal. Chances are there will be some amazing holiday food, so make sure you serve yourself a big plate of your favorite foods to keep yourself from getting sick.
DON'T drink and drive.
This is just common sense. Don't ever drink and drive, under any circumstances. AAA offers free towing services and rides, taxi cabs lower their fares, and Uber and Lyft are always good ideas. Arrive alive this holiday season.
Drink with people you trust.
Family won't let you get hurt or get too drunk and your friends want you to remember your holiday season. Always drink with people you trust who will keep you safe and take care of you.
Stop when you've had enough.
It's easy to get carried away, especially when you're home for the holidays, but don't let yourself get blacked out. When you know you've had too much, just stop. There's no shame in saying, "no, I've had enough." Be smart and responsible.