Throwing a party or organising a bit of a do, even having just a few friends around, can be a headache for the host when the serving of alcohol is involved.

However, with some basic planning everyone, including the host, should be able to enjoy themselves without any hassles.

While some parties can be spontaneous affairs, more often than not you have some time to plan things.

In our Resources section there are several booklets/pamphlets regarding information on planning parties, including recipes for food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Visit the Tips page and get some handy advice on safety and hosting.

Remember that a responsible host:

• Prevents intoxication.
• Does not serve alcohol to minors.
• Provides and actively promotes low and non-alcoholic alternatives.
• Provides and actively promotes substantial food.
• Serves alcohol responsibly – or not at all.
• Arranges safe transport options.

For detailed information on first aid advice when alcohol is concerned, visit the ALAC website

If an individual is unconscious or if you are in doubt about the situation call 111 and ask for an ambulance.

If at any time you wish to speak to someone anonymously about any concerns or questions you might have, you can telephone the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797

There are times when not drinking alcohol at all is the safest choice:

• If you are thinking of becoming pregnant or are pregnant, avoid all alcohol. For more information visit the ALAC website on drinking and pregnancy.
• You're going to drive or operate machinery (for further information about drinking and it's impact on your ability to drive see the Land Transport New Zealand website.)
• You're taking medication.
• You might be going boating or doing another sport.
• If you are recovering from an injury, operation or illness.

What about abstinence (not drinking at all)?

You could explore these ideas:

• What do I think I might do about my problems?
• What do I think of the idea of giving up alcohol altogether?

Given the availability of alcohol together with the almost universal belief that everyone drinks, abstinence is a challenging goal. Many people find it helps to be supported by a partner or close friend or others in their social network to become and remain abstinent.

This support may be a key factor. You can also get the 'User Guide' booklet from the Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797 to help you or download from our Resources section.

Whether you have support or not it may be helpful to contact your local Alcohol and Drug Service, which you will find under Alcohol in the telephone directory. Or the Alcohol Drug Helpline (0800 787 797) can tell you of your local services.

In addition to alcohol-related health problems, you might also be coping with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. If so, getting specialist help might be a good idea.

Is your drinking OK? Test your drinking by completing DrinkCheck

If at any time you wish to speak to someone anonymously about any concerns or questions you might have, you can telephone the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797