Alcohol is the most commonly-used drug in Aotearoa NZ. It’s a depressant, which means it slows down your physical and mental reflexes. Drinking alcohol may make you feel relaxed, more confident, and sociable. It can also reduce your ability to concentrate and slow your coordination and reflexes. The effects depend on your weight, metabolism and when you last ate.

Important information about alcohol, including its effects, how to be safer and how to cut down

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Info and advice Public health Being safer Drug information Drug harm Health effects Alcohol

Drug Index

We believe that access to accurate, clear information is essential to reduce drug-related harm. This index provides harm reduction advice for drugs that are common in New Zealand.

Alcohol Benzodiazepines Cannabis Cocaine GHB Heroin Ketamine LSD LSD MDMA Methamphetamine NBOMe Tobacco Synthetic cannabinoids Synthetic cathinones
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Is alcohol causing problems in your life? Visit Living Sober

Living Sober is our thriving online community for anyone considering stopping. The NZ Drug Foundation manages Living Sober in partnership with the Health Promotion Agency.

livingsober.org.nz

Alcohol drug hl

The Alcohol Drug Telephone Helpline is only a call away

Call 0800 787 797 or text 8681, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to speak with a trained counsellor. All calls are free and confidential.

alcoholdrughelp.org.nz

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