Avoid Harmful Substances

Substances that can harm your health include alcohol, nicotine and illegal drugs.

 

Alcohol

Drinking less alcohol can significantly lower the risk of liver disease, mental health issues, and accidents. Even small amounts of alcohol can have an impact on your health and wellbeing. Making informed choices about drinking, including cutting down or not drinking at all can lead to better physical and mental health. Support is available locally to help people reduce or stop drinking. This includes advice, interventions, and community services.

 

Alcohol Drinking Guidance

There is no safe limit to the amount of alcohol people can drink. It is advised that people stick within the current guidelines. Follow these guidelines to keep yourself healthier:

  • 14 units per week is a safer limit
  • Have at least 3 alcohol free days per week.
  • If you are pregnant, or there is a chance you could be, it is safest not to drink at all.
  • We understand it can be hard to measure or know how much you are drinking, or what a unit of alcohol looks like, especially at home. There are apps that help you track how much you are drinking, or you could keep a diary, or use an online unit calculator - Interactive Tools

Alcohol - Public Health Wales

 

Links to further support:

 

 

Smoking and Vaping

 Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Both can increase your risk of heart disease, cancer, and respiratory conditions. Support is available locally through smoking cessation services, including free advice, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and group support.

  • Free NHS stop smoking support can help you quit for good—whether you're stopping smoking, vaping, or both. Every journey is unique, and expert advisors will work with you to create a personalised plan that suits your goal. No lectures, no judgement – just practical advice, NRT, and plenty of encouragement and support.
  • The Smoking and Wellbeing Team also have specialist advisors in Maternity Services, Children and Young People services and Mental Health Services.
  • You can also access support at Help Me Quit who will then link you to your nearest smoking support service.
  • You can self-refer by calling 0300 303 9652, or emailing smokers.clinic@wales.nhs.uk
  • Orcha Smoking and Vaping Apps are useful to keep track of your goals, including money saving, tracking quit days and other useful information and advice on quitting.

 

Drugs

We understand the challenges that come with substance use. Our dedicated team is here to offer comprehensive support, valuable information, and practical advice to help you navigate any challenges you may have.

Whether you are seeking guidance for yourself or a loved one, we provide a range of resources tailored to your needs. From counselling services and interventions to educational materials, we are committed to supporting your journey towards recovery.

DDAS – Drug and Alcohol Service - DDAS is the first point of contact for any adult over the age of 18 with a drug or alcohol concern in Dyfed. Families and loved ones can also access support through DDAS – CHOICES is the under 18 service for alcohol or drug support. Telephone: 0330 363 9997. E-mail: confidential@d-das.co.uk

Here are some other useful links to information and services: