The Public Health Agency has advised people in Northern Ireland planning to drink alcohol on St Patrick's Day to make arrangements in advance for safer choices.

Stephanie Hanlon, Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol at the agency, stated that celebrants should monitor their alcohol consumption amid social pressures from peers.

She noted that sticking to a drinking plan helps avoid excess intake during group settings.

Hanlon explained that overconsumption can cause immediate effects like nausea, vomiting, hangovers, falls, accidents, injuries, impaired judgement, unplanned sexual activity, relationship issues, arguments, and violence.

She added that prolonged heavy drinking harms the liver, heart, brain, and stomach.

The agency stressed that alcohol is not required for enjoyment and encouraged alcohol-free days or reduced drinking.

People are urged to recognize personal limits and assist friends and family in doing the same.

Support services for alcohol or drug issues are listed at www.drugsandalcoholni.info. Additional help exists for those impacted by others' substance use.